Bangladesh to Hold Pivotal Elections and Referendum on Democratic Reforms

Bangladesh is set to hold its 13th National Parliamentary Election and a national referendum on the "July Charter" on February 12, 2026, as announced by Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin. This marks the first general election since the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024, following a student-led uprising.

The "July Charter" is a reform proposal aimed at curbing executive power, enhancing judicial and electoral independence, and addressing misuse of law enforcement. The referendum will seek public approval for key reforms outlined in the charter, including limits on the prime minister’s term, enhanced powers for the president, greater representation of women, expanded fundamental rights, and full judicial independence.

The main opposition party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, is considered a leading contender in the upcoming elections. The Awami League, Hasina's party, has been barred from participating in the election.

The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has been overseeing the country since Hasina's departure. Yunus emphasized that the elections would be free, fair, and inclusive, urging political parties to ensure youth and women are represented in their manifestos and governance plans.

The election process will commence with candidate nominations from December 12 to December 29, 2025. Scrutiny of nomination papers will occur through January 4, 2026, and withdrawals will be allowed until January 20, 2026. Over 120 million citizens are eligible to vote in the upcoming elections.

The upcoming elections and referendum are pivotal for Bangladesh's democratic trajectory. The exclusion of the Awami League from the elections raises questions about political inclusivity and the potential for unrest. The referendum on the July Charter reflects a significant public desire for systemic reforms, including checks on executive power and enhanced civil liberties. The political environment remains tense, with over 50 parties divided and approximately half refusing dialogue with the interim government.

President Mohammed Shahabuddin has announced his intention to step down halfway through his five-year term following the February 2026 parliamentary elections. Shahabuddin expressed feelings of humiliation, claiming that the interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, sidelined him. He cited a lack of communication with Yunus, the removal of his portraits from embassies, and the stripping of his press department as signs of being undermined.

The February 2026 elections and referendum represent a critical juncture for Bangladesh. The outcomes will likely determine the nation's democratic trajectory and its commitment to the reforms demanded by its citizens.