Will Bangladesh's Yunus Government Hold a Referendum with February Elections?
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Synopsis
In a significant political move, Bangladesh's interim government has mandated a referendum to coincide with the February 2026 elections. This directive raises questions about the implications for the electoral process amid rising political tensions in the country.
Key Takeaways
- Bangladesh's interim government has mandated a referendum alongside elections.
- The Election Commission faces significant organizational challenges.
- Political parties express concerns about potential unrest.
- The referendum aims to address key political issues.
- February 2026 is the scheduled date for both events.
Dhaka, Nov 22 (NationPress) The interim administration of Bangladesh, under the leadership of Muhammad Yunus, has mandated the Election Commission to conduct a referendum concurrently with the elections scheduled for February 2026, as stated by EC Secretary Akhtar Ahmed on Saturday, according to local news sources.
During an event on Saturday afternoon, Ahmed disclosed that the EC received a correspondence from the interim government on Thursday, instructing the commission to prepare for both the election and the referendum on the same day.
“The letter from the Cabinet Division directed the commission to initiate necessary preparations for holding a referendum,” as reported by Bangladesh’s prominent newspaper, The Business Standard.
“We received the letter on Thursday. In it, the government indicated that the responsibility for conducting the referendum falls on the EC, and it requested the commission to organize the elections alongside the referendum on that day,” he added.
Moreover, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) A M M Nasir Uddin remarked that managing both the referendum and the elections simultaneously poses significant challenges for the EC.
“Preparations for the elections are already in full swing, but conducting the national polls and a referendum on the same day will be a major challenge. Once the legislation is enacted, we will ascertain the necessary preparations for the referendum. After the law is passed, the commission will be fully equipped for it,” stated the CEC.
He further asserted, “Regardless of the challenges, the EC will hold both the referendum and the national elections on the same day. We have no alternative but to proceed.”
Conversely, Shafiqur Rahman, a leader of the radical Islamic Party Jamaat-e-Islami, cautioned that conducting the national election and referendum simultaneously could lead to what he termed as “electoral genocide,” emphasizing that his party would not incite any turmoil regarding the elections.
“We do not view a referendum on election day favorably. We have previously stated that merging the two could introduce serious risks to the election,” Rahman remarked while addressing reporters at Parade Ground in Chattogram on Saturday.
Last week, Yunus announced that the nation would conduct elections and a referendum together in the early part of February 2026, as reported by local media outlets.
In the midst of rising political tension, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) advocates for holding the referendum alongside the national elections in February 2026, while Jamaat and other Islamic factions are determined to conduct it prior to the elections.
Bangladesh continues to grapple with increasing uncertainty and political upheaval ahead of the upcoming elections.
The factions that previously allied with Yunus to displace the elected government of the Awami League, led by Sheikh Hasina, are currently in conflict over reform proposals.
Point of View
It is essential to remain impartial while recognizing the gravity of the situation in Bangladesh. The decision to hold a referendum alongside national elections has raised legitimate concerns about electoral integrity and potential unrest, reflecting the complex political dynamics at play. Our commitment is to provide balanced coverage that respects the diverse perspectives within this contentious debate.
NationPress
22/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the referendum?
The referendum is significant as it will address key political issues amidst ongoing tensions, and its timing with the elections raises questions about electoral integrity.
Who is responsible for conducting the referendum?
The Election Commission of Bangladesh is tasked with the responsibility of conducting the referendum as per the instructions from the interim government.
What challenges does the Election Commission face?
The Election Commission faces significant challenges in organizing both the referendum and the national elections on the same day, as expressed by Chief Election Commissioner A M M Nasir Uddin.
What are the concerns of political parties regarding this decision?
Political parties, particularly Jamaat-e-Islami, have expressed concerns that holding the referendum and elections simultaneously could lead to electoral chaos or 'electoral genocide.'
When are the elections and referendum scheduled?
Both the elections and the referendum are scheduled for February 2026.
