Bangladesh’s Election Commission (EC) continues to face a deepening trust crisis ahead of the 13th parliamentary election and a simultaneous referendum scheduled for February 12. The commission has repeatedly altered decisions, amended laws and codes of conduct mid-process, and faced legal complications over schedules and constituency boundaries. A new directive barring election officials from campaigning for or against the referendum has sparked further debate, as the government’s ongoing ‘yes’ campaign may send mixed signals to voters.

Observers note that the EC’s limited experience in organizing large-scale national polls without prior local elections raises concerns about its preparedness. The commission, formed in November 2024 under the interim government led by Dr. Muhammad Yunus, has been criticized for inconsistent decisions, including leniency toward loan defaulters and dual citizens, and for controversies over postal ballots, party symbols, and registration.

Election analysts argue that frequent rule changes have weakened the EC’s credibility, while commissioners insist they are acting fairly and without political pressure. The High Court has dismissed a petition seeking to halt the election and referendum.