When is Bangladesh elections? Key dates, result declaration and primary contestants

Bangladesh is heading for its first parliamentary elections since the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024.

The country, which has been under the leadership of interim leader Muhammad Yunus, has seen widespread protests and political turmoil, including violence and destruction of public property. 

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But when are the elections, what are the key parties, and when will the results be declared? Read to find out! 

Key dates of Bangladesh elections

Bangladesh Chief Election Commissioner had announced that the deadline for the nomination submission was December 29, 2025.

The country is now witnessing the official campaigning period, from January 22, 2026 to February 10, 2026. 

The polling day is February 12, 2026 with citizens allowed to vote from 7.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. 

A nationwide referendum on the July National Charter, which includes key constitutional reforms, will also take place simultaneously. 

The counting of votes will begin at 4 p.m. and the Election Commission will announce the results officially on the morning of February 13 as and when the counting gets over.

Main contestants

The primary contestants in the much awaited elections are the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) led by Tarique Rahman and a newly formed 11-party alliance, officially known as the ‘Like-minded 11 Parties.’ It is led by the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and the National Citizen Party.

The Awami League, of which Sheikh Hasina is the President, is currently suspended and barred from contesting elections. 

Political turmoil in Bangladesh

The country has been witnessing widespread political and civil turmoil ever since Ms. Hasina was ousted from power in August 2024, and fled the country in a dramatic move that shocked the world. Massive student protests were seen across the country, including the storming of the Presidential Palace.

Protesters march to PM Sheikh Hasina’s palace as army personnel stand guard in Dhaka on August 5, 2024.
| Photo Credit:
AFP

 The months after the ouster have been marked with repeated attempts to maintain peace under the interim leader Muhammad Yunus. 

What do the elections mean for Bangladesh?

The country and the world are keenly awaiting the polls, as a sign of normalcy and restoration of electoral democracy. Mr. Yunus has also faced allegations of trying to hold on to power post Hasina and these elections might help assuage fears of further political turmoil.