Dhaka: A recent analysis published in the English-language Bangladeshi newspaper 'The Business Standard' states that in the 13th National Parliamentary Elections, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami achieved an extraordinary success, thereby consolidating its position in national politics.
According to the analysis, the party received an average of 30 to 35 percent of the vote in approximately 225 constituencies where it contested- a significant increase compared to its past vote bank of 5 to 10 percent. Jamaat won 68 seats on its own, and with its allies, the total rose to 77 seats.
The report notes that although the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) secured a clear majority with 209 seats, Jamaat's emergence from a marginal force to a strong national contender is being described as a major political shift. Experts say that under the first-past-the-post system, there can be a significant difference in seats won even if the overall vote share remains relatively close.
The analysis identifies one major reason for Jamaat's rise as its student wing, Islami Chhatra Shibir, which established an organized network at the school, college, and university levels, producing ideologically committed and disciplined cadres. Recent successes in campus elections have further strengthened Jamaat's organized image among young voters.
According to the report, Jamaat's influence is not limited to electoral politics; it has also built a broad social network comprising welfare organizations, educational institutions, financial institutions, and hospitals, providing services and employment in various regions. Observers believe that this consistent presence has generated trust and support for the party at the local level.