Feb 15, 2026<\/p>\n
By\u00a0Shamsul Bari<\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0Ruhi Naz<\/a><\/p>\n FILE VISUAL: ANWAR SOHEL
\nThe long-anticipated and widely speculated national election has concluded. Contrary to many
\npredictions, voters delivered a decisive mandate to the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).
\nPeople\u2019s participation signals their endorsement of a platform framed around institutional
\nstability, rational governance, and inclusivity. The party leadership has reiterated its commitment
\nto strengthening the rule of law and combating corruption\u2014priorities that, if pursued
\nconsistently and with integrity, will shape both the credibility and durability of the incoming
\nadministration.
\nThe result also holds significant implications for the future of the Right to Information (RTI)
\nregime in Bangladesh. The year and a half of the interim government (IG) elicited both praise
\nand criticism for reasons widely known. For many who viewed the July 2024 uprising\u2014driven
\nlargely by a politically awakened younger generation\u2014as a turning point aimed at restoring
\npopular sovereignty and revitalising democratic institutions, the IG\u2019s record on transparency and
\naccountability proved deeply disappointing<\/p>\n