The 13th national election and the referendum on the July National Charter will be held on February 12, 2026 (Thursday), says BSS report.
“Voting will take place on February 12, 2026, from 7:30 am to 4:30 pm,” Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin announced the election schedule in an address to the nation this evening.
According to the schedule, the last date for submission of nomination papers is December 29, and scrutiny of nominations will be held from December 30, 2025 to January 4, 2026.
The deadline for filing appeals with the Commission against the Returning Officer’s orders is January 11. The appeals submitted to the Commission will be disposed of from January 12 to January 18.
The last date for withdrawal of candidature is January 20. Election symbols will be allocated and final list of the candidates will be published on January 21.
The election campaigning will continue from January 22, 2026 till 7.30am of February 10.
CEC Calls Upcoming Polls Unique, Historic
Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin said that the upcoming election is unique and historic turning point that will help restore genuine democratic practices
In an address to the nation while announcing the election schedule this evening, the CEC said the polls offer a rare opportunity to demonstrate institutional capability and rebuild public confidence.
He emphasized that the polls represent not only the restoration of genuine democratic practices but also a decisive step toward the much-needed reforms.
“This election is significant for several reasons. First, it will restore true democratic processes while enabling decisions on essential reforms,” he said.
For the first time in the country’s history, the parliamentary election and the national referendum will be held on the same day, marking what he called a new electoral experience.
He said the polls will give all state and democratic institutions a chance to prove their professionalism and regain public trust.
“Following decades of democratic struggle, this election demands a culture of respectful competition among political parties in the national interest,” he added.
Regarding preparations for a free and fair election, he said, “Over the past year, we have undertaken major initiatives to ensure transparency.
An accurate and comprehensive voter list is essential, he said, adding that nearly 45 lakh previously excluded or inactive voters have been added, while over 21 lakh deceased voters have been removed.
CA Hails EC for Announcing Schedule for National Polls
Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Election Commission (EC) for announcing the schedule of the 13th National Parliamentary Election and the referendum on the July National Charter (Constitutional Reform) Implementation Order 2025.
“With the announcement of this schedule, Bangladesh’s democratic journey has crossed an important milestone. Following the historic mass uprising, the country is now advancing on a new path – this election and referendum will strengthen that trajectory, give priority to the will of the people, and further consolidate the foundation of a new Bangladesh,” he said in a message this evening.
Expressing hope that the Election Commission would carry out its constitutional duties independently, impartially, and with the highest professionalism, Prof Yunus said, “The interim government will provide all necessary support to hold the election and the referendum in a festive, participatory and completely fair manner.”
The Chief Adviser called upon the political parties, candidates, the media, civil society, and the countrymen to take the election and the referendum as an initiative for national unity.
“Respect for differing opinions, a peaceful environment, and democratic behavior will make the coming days more stable for us,” he said.
“Bangladesh now stands at the threshold of a new future. It is my firm belief that with the active participation and responsible behavior of all of you, we will succeed in building a modern, just and prosperous state,” Prof Yunus added.