The most recent development in Bangladesh's political landscape is the conclusion of its first national election since the 2024 student-led uprising that ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The election, held on February 12, 2026, is seen as a pivotal moment for the country, with Gen Z voters playing a significant role. According to The Frontier Post, nearly 28% of Bangladesh's population is between the ages of 15-29, making them a crucial demographic in this election. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) emerged as the two main contenders, with BNP leader Tarique Rahman poised to become the new Prime Minister. Dawn reports that the election also included a referendum for constitutional amendments, marking a significant shift in the nation's governance structure. However, the sentiment across various sources remains skeptical about the potential for genuine reform, with many seeing it as 'old wine in new bottles' (CNN-News18). The Hindu highlights the hopes of young voters for justice, transparency, and equal opportunities, reflecting the spirit of the 2024 uprising.