Dhaka, Jan. 8 -- Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League clinching a record-extending fourth term in power was never in doubt, but Sunday's election has catapulted the independents into the second position ahead of the Jatiya Party, with the boycotting BNP out of the equation.

It raises questions about the composition and role of the opposition in parliament, especially in light of the largest opposition BNP's boycott.

Independent candidates of the ruling party have scored shock victories over dozens of heavyweights, including incumbent MPs of the Awami League and the Jatiya Party.

The Jatiya Party is set to be the official opposition in parliament again, commanding just 11 seats. Its candidates have lost in half of the 26 constitu...