Bangladesh elections 2026 will take place in February next year, interim leader Muhammad Yunus announced on Tuesday. He said he will ask the Chief Election Commissioner to arrange the vote before Ramadan. The message came on the first anniversary of the uprising that removed Sheikh Hasina from office.
Yunus, 85, is serving as chief adviser to the caretaker government. He said he will step down after the vote. In his address he called the election the final and most important step toward handing power to an elected government.
Bangladesh elections 2026: caretaker vows a fair and peaceful vote
The interim setup had earlier pointed to April. Key parties pressed for an earlier date. The new target answers that demand and aims to avoid the start of Ramadan. Yunus said the state will give full support to ensure a free, peaceful and celebratory election.
The Election Commission will now shape the schedule and operational plan. Parties in Dhaka and across the districts will watch for a level playing field. Observers expect a focus on campaign freedoms, media access and security. Voter lists and polling staff will be another test of readiness.
For Pakistan, a clear and credible vote in Bangladesh would support regional stability and trade links. It would also calm markets that prefer predictability in South Asia. Smooth polling and an orderly transfer of power could open room for practical cooperation in textiles, IT services and shipping.
