Shafiqul Alam, the Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary, stated today that the next general elections will take place by June 30, 2026, in accordance with the roadmap outlined by the Chief Adviser. He emphasized that the Election Commission is responsible for setting the specific date for the elections.
In a televised address to the nation on December 16, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus mentioned that the elections could be held anytime between late 2025 and the first half of 2026. During today’s press briefing, Alam reaffirmed that those responsible for the violence during the July-August protests would be brought to justice, regardless of their political affiliations.
Various political figures, professional organizations, student leaders, and civil society members have expressed their support for the proposed election timeline announced by the Chief Adviser. However, they have stressed the importance of implementing essential reforms in various sectors as recommended by relevant committees to ensure a free and fair election process.
Many individuals voiced that the election could be held sooner if electoral reforms were prioritized, noting that the interim government’s main duty is to facilitate a fair and inclusive election. Some also pointed out that the people have been deprived of their voting rights under the previous government. Advocate Mohammad Nazim Uddin Chowdhury from the Chattogram District Bar Association praised the announcement but suggested that the process should be expedited to reduce uncertainty.
Other leaders, such as Professor S M Nasrul Quadir from Chittagong University, also supported the election deadline, stressing that the reforms should be swiftly implemented for a timely election. Political figures like Nazimur Rahman from the BNP emphasized that the current interim government should organize the elections as soon as possible to end the long wait for the people’s voting rights. Alhaj Shahjahan Chowdhury from Jammat-e-Islami Bangladesh expressed optimism about the Chief Adviser’s decision but advocated for giving the interim government enough time to implement necessary reforms before the election.
Several leaders, including Rasel Ahmed from the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, stressed that the trial of those responsible for past violence, forced disappearances, and corruption should take place before the elections. There was a broad consensus that reforms in sectors like education, the economy, the judiciary, and anti-corruption agencies are necessary to rebuild the country.
