Although the exact date of Bangladesh`s next national election remains undecided, the interim government has indicated it will be held by June 2026.
In anticipation, the proposed national budget for FY2025–26 has significantly increased funding for the Election Commission (EC).
According to the budget announced by Finance Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed on Monday, the EC has been allocated Tk 2,956 crore for the next fiscal year—up from Tk 1,142 crore in the revised FY2024–25 budget. This marks a 159% increase or a rise of Tk 1,814 crore.
Of the total proposed allocation, Tk 2,727 crore is earmarked for operational expenditure, while Tk 229 crore is for development purposes.
In contrast, the outgoing year’s operational budget stood at Tk 716 crore, meaning operational costs alone have risen by over Tk 2,000 crore.
Though Dr. Ahmed made no specific remarks about the EC allocation in his budget speech, the ministry-wise expenditure breakdown confirms the significant increase.
Officials say the boost in funding is intended to cover the logistical and administrative expenses of conducting the election.
For comparison, ahead of the 12th parliamentary election held on January 7, 2024, the EC received a total budget of Tk 4,190 crore, including Tk 3,981 crore for operational costs.
The current allocation suggests the government is preparing early to ensure the next general election is smoothly conducted within the upcoming fiscal year.
