15 Feb 2026·Source: The Hindu

4 min

Polity & GovernanceInternational RelationsNEWS

Bangladesh BNP urges unity, warns against post-election revenge

BNP leader Tarique Rahman calls for unity and calm post-election.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairman Tarique Rahman urged all parties that contested the February 12 parliamentary election to unite for national interest. Addressing a press conference in Dhaka, he urged BNP colleagues to prevent any unpleasant incidents post-election. He called upon BNP leaders and activists to remain calm and vigilant to prevent any malicious forces from exploiting the situation to create unrest.

Rahman paid tribute to his mother, the late Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. His public appearance came a day after his party won an absolute majority in Parliament. He sought cooperation from all in combating corruption, maintaining law and order, and ensuring accountability to the people.

Key Facts

BNP chairman Tarique Rahman urged unity among parties that contested the February 12 parliamentary election.

Rahman called on BNP colleagues to prevent unpleasant incidents post-election.

He urged BNP leaders and activists to remain calm and vigilant.

Rahman paid tribute to his mother, the late Prime Minister Khaleda Zia.

He sought cooperation in combating corruption, maintaining law and order, and ensuring accountability.

UPSC Exam Angles

GS Paper II: Polity and Governance - Electoral processes, political parties

Connects to syllabus topics on elections, political systems, and constitutional bodies

Potential question types: Statement-based, analytical questions on electoral reforms

In Simple Words

After an election, it's easy for parties to hold grudges. However, it's important for everyone to come together and work for the country. Holding onto anger only creates more problems.

India Angle

In India, elections can be very heated, and sometimes people get carried away. But after the results, leaders need to put aside their differences and focus on improving the lives of all Indians.

For Instance

Think about when there's a disagreement in your family. You might argue, but eventually, you have to find a way to get along and work together for the good of the family.

If political parties keep fighting after elections, nothing gets done. It's important for them to cooperate so that the country can move forward.

Elections end, but the need for unity continues.

More Information

Background

The concept of a multi-party system is fundamental to democratic governance. It allows for diverse political ideologies and representation of various sections of society. The evolution of party systems varies across countries, influenced by historical, social, and economic factors. In India, the party system has evolved from a dominant party system (Congress) to a multi-party system with coalition governments. Coalition governments have become increasingly common in many democracies, including India. This often reflects a fragmented electorate and the need for parties to form alliances to secure a majority. The success of a coalition depends on factors such as the compatibility of ideologies, power-sharing arrangements, and the ability to manage conflicts. The stability of coalition governments can be affected by internal disagreements and external pressures. Electoral reforms play a crucial role in shaping the party system and ensuring fair representation. The Election Commission of India is responsible for conducting free and fair elections and implementing electoral reforms. These reforms may include measures to address issues such as campaign finance, electoral malpractices, and representation of women and marginalized groups. The Representation of the People Act, 1951, provides the legal framework for the conduct of elections in India.

Latest Developments

Recent trends in electoral politics include the rise of regional parties and the increasing importance of social media in campaigning. Regional parties often play a significant role in coalition governments, representing specific regional interests and concerns. The use of social media has transformed political communication, allowing parties to reach voters directly and mobilize support. However, it also raises concerns about the spread of misinformation and the potential for online manipulation.

The role of civil society organizations in promoting electoral participation and accountability has also gained prominence. These organizations work to educate voters, monitor elections, and advocate for electoral reforms. They play a crucial role in ensuring that elections are free, fair, and inclusive. The Election Commission of India also collaborates with civil society organizations to enhance voter awareness and participation.

Looking ahead, electoral reforms are likely to focus on issues such as campaign finance regulation, electronic voting, and voter registration. There is growing debate about the need for greater transparency in campaign finance and stricter enforcement of regulations. The use of electronic voting machines (EVMs) has been a subject of controversy, with concerns raised about their security and reliability. Efforts are also being made to improve voter registration processes and ensure that all eligible citizens are able to exercise their right to vote.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the key facts related to Tarique Rahman's recent call for unity that are important for UPSC Prelims?

Tarique Rahman, the BNP chairman, urged unity among all parties that participated in the February 12 parliamentary election. He also called for calm and vigilance post-election to prevent unrest and emphasized combating corruption, maintaining law and order, and ensuring accountability.

Exam Tip

Focus on key personalities and their roles in the event for prelims.

2. Why is Tarique Rahman's call for unity and calm post-election significant in the context of parliamentary democracy?

In a parliamentary democracy, a peaceful transition of power and cooperation between parties are crucial for stability and effective governance. Rahman's call aims to prevent post-election violence and ensure that the focus remains on addressing key issues like corruption and law and order.

Exam Tip

Relate the call for unity to the broader principles of democratic governance.

3. What is the role of political parties in ensuring accountability in a parliamentary system, as highlighted by Tarique Rahman?

Political parties, both in power and in opposition, play a vital role in ensuring accountability by raising issues, questioning government policies, and demanding transparency. Tarique Rahman's emphasis on accountability suggests a commitment to responsible governance and responsiveness to the needs of the people.

Exam Tip

Consider the role of opposition parties in holding the government accountable.

4. How might Tarique Rahman's call for unity impact common citizens in Bangladesh?

If successful, Tarique Rahman's call for unity could lead to a more stable political environment, reduced violence, and a greater focus on addressing issues that affect common citizens, such as corruption, law and order, and economic development. This could improve their overall quality of life and trust in the government.

Exam Tip

Think about the practical implications of political stability on the daily lives of citizens.

5. What are the recent developments related to the February 12 parliamentary election that are relevant for UPSC?

The recent developments include Tarique Rahman, BNP chairman, urging unity among parties that contested the election. He also emphasized preventing unpleasant incidents post-election and focusing on combating corruption, maintaining law and order, and ensuring accountability.

Exam Tip

Focus on the key political events and statements made by prominent leaders.

6. What are the key issues Tarique Rahman has highlighted that need cooperation from all parties?

Tarique Rahman has sought cooperation from all parties in combating corruption, maintaining law and order, and ensuring accountability to the people. These are critical areas that require collective effort to ensure good governance and stability.

Exam Tip

Remember these issues as potential areas for government and political reform.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP): 1. Tarique Rahman is the current chairman of the BNP. 2. The BNP recently won an absolute majority in Parliament, according to the news. 3. Khaleda Zia is the mother of Tarique Rahman and a former Prime Minister. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1 and 2 only
B.2 and 3 only
C.1 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: D

All three statements are correct based on the provided summary. Tarique Rahman is indeed the chairman of the BNP. The BNP won an absolute majority in the recent parliamentary election. Khaleda Zia is Tarique Rahman's mother and a former Prime Minister of Bangladesh. Therefore, option D is the correct answer.

2. In the context of post-election scenarios, what is the primary appeal made by Tarique Rahman, according to the news?

A.To seek international intervention for election monitoring.
B.To unite all parties for national interest and prevent post-election violence.
C.To form an alliance with specific political parties only.
D.To demand a re-election under a neutral caretaker government.

Show Answer

Answer: B

According to the news, Tarique Rahman urged all parties that contested the election to unite for national interest and appealed to BNP colleagues to prevent any unpleasant incidents post-election. This aligns with option B. The other options are not mentioned in the provided summary.

3. Which of the following is NOT explicitly mentioned as an area where Tarique Rahman sought cooperation from all parties?

A.Combating corruption
B.Maintaining law and order
C.Ensuring accountability to the people
D.Reforming the judicial system

Show Answer

Answer: D

The news explicitly mentions that Tarique Rahman sought cooperation from all in combating corruption, maintaining law and order, and ensuring accountability to the people. Reforming the judicial system is not mentioned. Therefore, option D is the correct answer.