Bangladesh plans to hold elections in late 2025 or early 2026
Bangladesh is preparing for general elections to be held either in late 2025 or early 2026, according to Muhammad Yunus, the country’s interim leader and head of the caretaker government formed after a political revolution in August.
In a national address marking the 53rd anniversary of Bangladesh’s independence, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Yunus stated, 'The election timeline may be set by the end of 2025 or the first half of 2026.'
Dr. Yunus, who was appointed as 'chief adviser' following a student-led uprising that led to the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has faced growing demands to announce an election date.
The country’s military chief, General Waker-uz-Zaman, played a pivotal role in the political shift by refusing to back Hasina during the protests. In September, Zaman called for the restoration of democracy within 12 to 18 months.
Opposition parties, including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and the Awami League, have also urged the caretaker government to expedite the electoral process.
Yunus has initiated several commissions aimed at implementing key reforms, which he believes are necessary before setting an election date. 'Reforms must take priority before organizing the election,' he emphasized during his broadcast.
However, Yunus acknowledged that the timeline could be adjusted based on consensus among political parties. 'If political parties agree to hold the election sooner, with minimal reforms such as a comprehensive voter list, the polls could be scheduled by late 2025,' he said.
He also noted that implementing a broader set of electoral reforms might push the timeline slightly into early 2026.
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