Bangladesh Election Commission Announces National Election Schedule
Dhaka, December 11, 2025 — Bangladesh’s Chief Election Commissioner, A.M.M. Nasir Uddin, today officially released the detailed schedule for the country’s upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election and a concurrent national referendum, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s democratic process.
In an address to the nation broadcast live on state and private television channels, the Election Commission confirmed that the general election and referendum will be held on February 12, 2026.
Key Dates Announced
- Election & Referendum Date: February 12, 2026.
- Nomination Submission Deadline: December 29, 2025.
- Nomination Scrutiny Period: December 30 – January 4, 2026.
- Last Date for Withdrawal: January 20, 2026.
- Final Candidate List & Symbol Allocation: January 21, 2026.
- Campaign Period: January 22 to February 10, 2026.
The voting process will take place from 7:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. across the country’s more than 42,000 polling stations, giving eligible voters a full day to cast their ballots.
Historic Referendum on Constitutional Reform
For the first time in Bangladesh’s election history, a national referendum will be held on the same day as the parliamentary elections. The referendum will ask voters to approve or reject the “July National Charter”, a comprehensive reform agenda designed to overhaul governance structures, strengthen judicial and electoral independence, and reduce executive dominance in state affairs.
Commissioner’s Message
During his address, Chief Election Commissioner Nasir Uddin described the upcoming polls as a unique and historic moment for Bangladesh, expressing hope that they would help restore democratic practices and rebuild public confidence in the electoral process.
Political Context
This election will be the first general election since the 2024 mass upheaval that led to the resignation and exile of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Since then, an interim government has governed the country under Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus, who has pledged to oversee a fair and transparent election process.
Reactions from Political Parties
Main political parties, including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Jamaat-e-Islami, and the National Citizen Party (NCP), have publicly welcomed the announcement, calling it a crucial step toward restoring democratic governance and ensuring that citizens can exercise their voting rights.
