BNP receives highest election campaign coverage in BTV’s 8pm news: TIB

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has reported that BNP received the highest share of coverage related to election campaigning in Bangladesh Television's (BTV) 8pm news.

Overall, BTV's 8pm news allocated a total of 593 minutes and 55 seconds to election-related coverage of political parties and candidates between 1 October last year to 12 February 2026.

The estimated monetary value of this airtime amounts to Tk 5.34cr, reports TIB.

Of which, BTV spent 352 minutes and 15 seconds covering BNP in its 8pm news bulletin. The estimated value of this airtime was Tk3.17cr, accounting for 59.32% of the total expenditure.

The findings were presented today (16 February) at a press conference held at TIB's office in Dhanmondi to mark the release of a report titled "13th National Parliamentary Election Process and Affidavit-Based Observation."

Transparency International Bangladesh Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman was present at the event.

Meanwhile, Jamaat-e-Islami received 128 minutes and 15 seconds of coverage, valued at Tk1.15cr, which represents 21.59% of the total. The National Citizens' Party (NCP) was given 70 minutes and 39 seconds, worth Tk63.5 lakhs, or 11.89% of the total expenditure.

In contrast, the Jatiyo Party received no coverage during this period. Independent candidates were allocated 10 seconds, while other parties collectively received 42 minutes and 36 seconds of airtime.

TIB also noted that BNP incurred the highest expenditure on social media campaigning.

From 22 September 2025 to 10 February this year, BNP reportedly spent nearly Tk3cr across 11 party pages and 11 candidate pages. During the same period, Jamaat-e-Islami spent Tk1.35cr across 115 pages, while NCP spent nearly Tk11 lakhs on 17 pages for online campaigning.

The report further stated that although the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) had indicated it would verify the information provided in candidates' affidavits and take necessary action, no visible steps have been taken.

It also alleged that university vice-chancellors and teachers participated in partisan political campaigns.

Additionally, government officials were reportedly involved in political campaigning activities, including performing songs and religious music in support of parties.

The Ministry of Local Government was accused of allocating special financial grants to certain constituencies prior to the election, including development funds for religious and social institutions, which became controversial due to alleged favoritism toward parties associated with former adviser. 

The report also highlighted irregularities involving polling officials, presiding officers, and assistant presiding officers. These allegations include secret meetings and hospitality with rival political leaders on the eve of the election, pre-stamping ballots, signing in ballot papers in advance, and facilitating fraudulent voting.