The schedule for Bangladesh’s 13th national parliamentary election – along with a simultaneous national referendum – is likely to be announced by this evening or tomorrow.
Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of Bangladesh, AMM Nasir Uddin, said this after a meeting with Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed yesterday.
He said the Commission has completed all necessary preparations for both the polls and the referendum. He informed that the formal schedule will be released within the week.
According to EC officials, the upcoming vote will cover all 300 parliamentary constituencies.
For the first time, it will be held in conjunction with a nationwide referendum on the recently introduced July National Charter 2025, which outlines several proposed political, governance, and constitutional reforms.
Meanwhile, political parties have intensified internal discussions, reviewing candidate lists, alliance options, and strategic adjustments ahead of the schedule’s release.
Seat-sharing negotiations among smaller parties have also begun to pick up momentum across various districts.
However, election analysts warn that the upcoming polls in Bangladesh face serious challenges.
They say a non-inclusive process could further strain the country’s fragile democracy, especially with major political groups – including the barred Awami League – unable to participate formally.
Political observers and rights groups say broad participation and a level playing field are essential for public confidence. They urged authorities to ensure free and fair conditions for all.
