Election Date and Context

Bangladesh has officially set 12 february 2026 as the date for its 13th National Parliamentary Election.

This marks the first general election since the ouster of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina.

The Awami League, Hasina’s party, has been formally banned and will not participate, significantly altering the political landscape.

CEC’s National Address

Chief election Commissioner (CEC) Naseeruddin announced the schedule in a national broadcast.

He stated bangladesh is prepared to demonstrate its ability to hold “free and democratic voting” despite ongoing political turbulence.

The CEC emphasised the importance of voter vigilance against misinformation, identifying fake news as a major challenge ahead of the polls.

He confirmed that the general election and the July Charter referendum will be held simultaneously on 12 February.

Electoral Logistics and Voter Participation

Voting will take place across 300 parliamentary constituencies.

Non-resident Bangladeshis (NRBs) can apply online to participate, with the application period running from friday to 25 December.

This marks one of the more expansive opportunities for the diaspora to engage in the national electoral process.

Nomination and Scrutiny Timeline

29 december 2025: Deadline for candidates to submit nomination papers.

30 december 2025 – 4 january 2026: Scrutiny phase for all submitted nominations.

Until 11 January: Window to file appeals regarding nomination decisions.

12–18 January: election commission to review and resolve appeals.

20 January: Final date for candidate withdrawals.

Political Landscape and Expected Contest

With the Awami League barred, the election is set to be dominated by two major forces:

Bangladesh Nationalist party (BNP) led by former PM Khaleda Zia.

Jamat-e-Bangladesh, representing right-wing interests.

Observers expect a significant redata-alignment of political dynamics in the absence of the long-standing Awami League presence.

Commitment to Transparency

CEC Naseeruddin reaffirmed that the election Commission is dedicated to maintaining credibility and transparency throughout each stage of the electoral process.

The official announcement marks Bangladesh’s formal step toward restoring democratic electoral norms.

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