Youth Engagement Fuels Islamist Momentum Ahead of Elections in Bangladesh

Recent student elections at prominent universities in Bangladesh have ignited discussions regarding the potential resurgence of the country's largest Islamist party as national elections approach next year.

The Islami Chhatra Shibir (ICS), the student faction of Jamaat-e-Islami, achieved significant victories in the recent student council elections at two key public universities. At Jahangirnagar University, ICS secured 20 out of 25 seats in the Central Students' Union election. This follows a successful campaign at Dhaka University, where an ICS-supported coalition, the United Students' Alliance, captured 23 of 28 seats, including pivotal roles such as vice president and general secretary.

These elections mark the first major polls since the political upheaval that led to the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024. Jamaat-e-Islami and its student wing were previously banned under an anti-terrorism law during Hasina's tenure. However, the interim government that took over after her departure lifted the ban, citing a lack of evidence linking the party to terrorist activities.

Historically, Jamaat-e-Islami has faced significant scrutiny due to its alignment with Pakistan during Bangladesh's independence war in 1971, and has been penalized under Hasina's government, where many of its leaders faced execution or imprisonment for alleged crimes against humanity. With the political landscape shifting, the party is now re-emerging as a significant player.

Political analysts suggest that the recent electoral outcomes could signal a broader trend within the country. One expert noted that the current situation represents a gradual transition rather than an abrupt change, underscoring the long-term sentiment shifts among the electorate.

The interim administration, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has called for national elections scheduled for February 2026. As the political landscape evolves, major political factions are closely monitoring the student election results, which are viewed as a reflection of public sentiment leading up to the national vote.

In light of the student council victories, Jamaat-e-Islami leaders have indicated optimism that these results might translate into success in the national elections. Conversely, the Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal, the student wing of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), did not perform well in the Dhaka University elections. Some analysts caution against overinterpreting these results, suggesting that student union elections have historically been a barometer for anti-establishment feelings.

Despite skepticism from some quarters, others argue that the outcomes cannot be dismissed outright, as they contribute to shaping public perceptions. The evolving dynamics among the youth electorate are particularly noteworthy. A recent survey indicated that approximately 22% of voters under 35 now support Jamaat-e-Islami, while 39% favor the BNP, the primary opposition party. With a significant proportion of the population under 30, young voters are poised to play a crucial role in the upcoming elections.

The political landscape in Bangladesh is fluid, with nearly half of young voters reportedly undecided, suggesting potential for significant reorganization of political allegiances in the lead-up to the elections.