The interim government plans to hold Bangladesh’s 13th National Parliamentary Election in February 2026, ahead of the holy month of Ramadan.
Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus announced the decision in a televised address to the nation on Tuesday night, marking the first anniversary of the July mass uprising that led to the fall of the previous government.
In his speech, aired simultaneously on Bangladesh Television, BTV News, and Bangladesh Betar at 8:20 PM, Professor Yunus said a formal letter would be sent to the Chief Election Commissioner requesting the Election Commission to organize the national polls before Ramadan begins in 2026.
Earlier in the afternoon, the Chief Adviser read the "July Declaration" at the South Plaza of the National Parliament complex.
He emphasized that the interim government`s core responsibilities are reform, justice, and the successful arrangement of national elections.
“Now begins the final and most significant chapter of our journey—handing over power to an elected government,” Yunus stated. He also added, “From today, we step into that final phase.”
The fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led government on August 5, 2024, following a mass student and public uprising, ended nearly 16 years of Awami League rule.
Just three days later, the interim government, led by Professor Yunus, was formed. Since then, political parties, especially the BNP, have been pressing for national elections.
Tensions in the political landscape even led to a meeting between Professor Yunus and BNP Acting Chairperson Tarique Rahman in London on June 13.
Following the meeting, both parties jointly declared that elections would be held between February and April 2026.
Now, reaffirming that decision on the anniversary of the uprising, Yunus said the election would take place in early February—before the start of Ramadan.
He urged all citizens to pray for a smooth, peaceful, and festive election, describing it as a collective step toward building a "new Bangladesh."
The interim government pledged full support to ensure that the election is fair, orderly, and inclusive.
The Chief Adviser called for all necessary institutional and psychological preparations to begin immediately so that this election becomes a landmark in the country’s history—for its festivity, peace, voter turnout, and national harmony.
Referring to the long-standing deprivation of voting rights, Yunus remarked, “For 15 years, the people were denied their right to vote. This time, we wish to vote not just with joy—but with overdue joy.”
He said the election would welcome many first-time voters, both men and women, and even those who had reached voting age years ago but never got the opportunity to cast their ballots.
Describing the upcoming election day as a national celebration, he added, “Let this be like Eid for us. Take your children to the polling centers and let this be a joyful memory for all.”
