Bangladesh’s Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) A.M.M. Nasir Uddin has announced the schedule for the country’s 13th parliamentary election, setting February 12 next year as the polling day. In a televised address on December 11, he also confirmed that a national referendum on the July Charter implementation will be held on the same day. Candidates may submit nomination papers between December 12 and 29, with scrutiny scheduled from December 30 to January 4. The deadline for withdrawal of candidacy is January 20, and election symbols will be allocated on January 21.

According to the CEC, the upcoming election will be a “nationwide festival of democracy,” covering all 300 constituencies. Over 127.6 million citizens are registered to vote, including more than 300,000 expatriate Bangladeshis who will cast ballots through postal voting for the first time. The commission has allotted 18 days for nomination submission and 20 days for campaigning.

Observers note that the simultaneous referendum adds administrative complexity, but the Election Commission insists preparations are on track for a transparent and inclusive process.