DHAKA, Bangladesh (AP) — The Bangladesh Nationalist Party headed by the son of a former prime minister was projected to form the next government as the South Asian nation on Thursday held its first election since mass protests toppled Sheikh Hasina’s government in 2024.

After a slow start, crowds converged on polling stations in the capital, Dhaka, and elsewhere later in the day. By 2:00 p.m., over 47% voters had cast their ballots, the Election Commission said.

BBC South Asia correspondent Azadeh Moshiri visited Sheikh Hasina's former residence which is now a memorial for the student protesters killed in the 2024 uprising.

Dhaka ― Counting began in Bangladesh's pivotal national election on Thursday after tens of millions of people voted for a new government following the 2024 ouster of long‑time premier Sheikh Hasina in a tumultuous Gen Z‑driven uprising.

In a major political development, Tarique Rahman has invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Bangladesh’s new government. Following the recent general elections in Bangladesh,