Bangladesh’s Election Commission has announced that the country’s 13th national parliamentary election will be held on February 12, 2026. On the same day, citizens will also participate in a landmark referendum to decide whether to implement the ‘July Charter,’ a reform framework born out of the 2024 mass uprising. The referendum will ask voters to approve or reject a set of constitutional reform proposals under the July National Charter Implementation Order 2025.

If the majority votes ‘yes,’ a Constitutional Reform Council will be formed with newly elected members of parliament. The council will have 180 working days to finalize constitutional amendments, including establishing a bicameral legislature, limiting the prime minister’s tenure, strengthening presidential powers, and enhancing judicial independence. The upper house would be composed of 100 members proportionally representing party votes.

Political observers note that the referendum could redefine Bangladesh’s governance structure and power balance. Following reform completion, an upper chamber will be constituted within 30 working days, marking a major shift toward institutional restructuring and expanded democratic participation.