Bangladesh Sets February 12 for National Election Amid Political Tensions

DHAKA, Dec 11: Bangladesh will head to the polls on February 12, 2026, to elect a new national parliament, the Election Commission announced on Thursday. This will be the first general election since last year’s dramatic student-led uprising that ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who subsequently fled to India.

The announcement marks a critical moment for the nation of 173 million, which has been under the stewardship of an interim government led by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus. Although widely welcomed initially, the caretaker administration has faced increasing public frustration over delays in promised political and economic reforms.

According to the Election Commission, nomination papers must be submitted by December 29, followed by scrutiny from December 30 to January 4. Appeals against decisions by returning officers can be filed until January 11, with final rulings expected by January 18. Candidates will have until January 20 to withdraw, and election symbols will be allocated on January 21.

Campaigning will run from January 22 until 48 hours before polls open on election day.

In anticipation of unrest, security has been strengthened around the Election Commission headquarters in Dhaka. Additional police forces, increased patrols, and strict checks at entry points were implemented as the schedule was announced.

With political divisions deepening and reform pledges still unmet, analysts say the upcoming election may become a pivotal test for Bangladesh’s democratic trajectory and the credibility of the interim administration.

The coming weeks are expected to see heightened political activity as parties, activists, and voters prepare for a high-stakes vote that could redefine the country’s future.