Politics - The Daily Ittefaq

PM seeks party support to implement manifesto

UNB — Sun, 31 May 2026 20:38:34 +0600

Prime Minister and BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Sunday warned party leaders and activists that a difficult and important time lies ahead, and called for their support in implementing the party’s election manifesto to make the government successful. “I would like to tell everyone that a very difficult time lies ahead of us. At the same time, a very important period awaits us. If... Details

EC plans unified code of conduct, poster-free campaigns

UNB — Tue, 12 May 2026 14:56:55 +0600

The Election Commission (EC) is planning to introduce a uniform code of conduct for elections to all five types of local government bodies to make the rules easier for people to understand and ensure effective enforcement ahead of a massive electoral cycle likely to begin later this year. As part of preparation to conduct elections to local government bodies throughout the country, the... Details

PM Tarique seeks party support to fulfil polls pledges

UNB — Sat, 09 May 2026 16:13:50 +0600

Prime Minister and BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Saturday urged party leaders and activists to engage in a ‘new battle’ to implement the party’s election manifesto, saying his government cannot succeed without their supoort. “One battle has ended, now another battle has begun. That battle is to implement the commitments we made to people,” he said while... Details

Bengal Assembly dissolved after Mamata refuses to resign

UNB — Fri, 08 May 2026 11:20:04 +0600

West Bengal Governor RN Ravi has dissolved the state legislative assembly after Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee refused to resign following her party’s defeat in the recent assembly election. The term of the assembly expired at 12am on Thursday. Later in the evening, Raj Bhavan released a letter issued on Wednesday announcing the dissolution order “for general information”.... Details

Nomination submission deadline ends today

BSS — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 10:24:32 +0600

The deadline for submitting nomination papers for the reserved women's seats in the 13th Jatiya Sangsad ends today, according to Election Commission (EC) sources. As of Monday, five leaders of the BNP have submitted their nomination papers. So far, a total of 464 aspirants have collected nomination papers. EC sources said that out of the 50 reserved women's seats allocated proportionately... Details

BNP alliance names 36 for reserved seats

UNB — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 16:34:35 +0600

The BNP-led ruling alliance on Monday announced the final list of 36 nominees for the reserved women’s seats in the 13th Jatiya Sangsad, effectively ensuring their election unopposed. Prime Minister’s Adviser and BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi announced the names at a press conference at the party’s Nayapaltan central office. Although the Election... Details

Bogura‑6 & Sherpur‑3: BNP candidates win in landslides

UNB — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 22:54:45 +0600

BNP candidates have won by landslide in the Bogura-6 by-election and Sherpur-3 election held on Thursday. In the Bogura-6 by-election, occasioned by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's abdication in favour of his other seat at Dhaka-17, BNP’s Md. Rezaul Karim Badsha, contesting under the “Sheaf of Paddy” symbol, secured 1,33,931 votes, while his nearest rival,... Details

Voting underway in Sherpur-3, Bogura-6 by-polls

UNB — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 11:03:51 +0600

Voting in Sherpur-3 election and Bogura-6 by-polls began on Thursday morning. Polling in both parliamentary seats started at 7:30am and will continue until 4:30pm without any break. Earlier, the Election Commission completed all necessary preparations to hold voting in a free and fair manner. On February 24 last, the EC announced the election schedule for the two constituencies. The deadline... Details

Polls schedule for reserved women's seats announced

BSS — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 15:46:10 +0600

The Election Commission (EC) has announced the schedule for the reserved women's seat elections to be held on May 12. Senior Secretary of the EC Secretariat Akhtar Ahmed announced the schedule at Nirbachan Bhaban in city’s Agargaon area today. He said the last date for filing nomination papers for the reserved women's seat election of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad is April 21 and the... Details

‘Delhi keen to work together with Dhaka in ‘positive’ manner’

UNB — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 13:13:56 +0600

Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma on Monday reaffirmed India’s intent to work together with the Government and the people of Bangladesh in a ‘positive, constructive and forward-looking manner’ based on mutual interest and mutual benefit. The Indian envoy conveyed the intent when he paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at his office.... Details

'Hard-earned democracy must be protected'

UNB — Sat, 04 Apr 2026 15:33:18 +0600

Whip M Ruhul Quddus Talukder Dulu on Saturday said democracy in the country has been restored through 17 years of struggle and sacrifice, urging all to remain vigilant in protecting it. “Democracy achieved through blood must be safeguarded at any cost,” he said while addressing as the chief guest an Eid reunion and felicitation programme organised by the Natore District... Details

Fierce debate in JS before Mar 31 fixed to discuss July Charter

UNB — Sun, 29 Mar 2026 23:06:01 +0600

Parliament on Sunday witnessed a fierce debate before fixing March 31 to discuss the July National Charter (Constitution Reform) Implementation Order, 2025 in line with an adjournment motion placed by the Opposition Leader. Opposition Leader Dr Shafiqur Rahman gave the notice of adjournment motion on a matter of public importance under the Section 62 of the Rules of Procedure, seeking the... Details

PM exchanges views with partymen at Nayapaltan office

BSS — Sat, 28 Mar 2026 21:24:10 +0600

BNP Chairman and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today exchanged views with party leaders, cabinet members and lawmakers at the party's Nayapaltan central office here this evening. Earlier, he arrived at the central office around 7:20pm while BNP leaders and activists welcomed him upon his arrival. This is the first time Tarique Rahman visited the party's Nayapaltan office after assuming... Details

BPP meets to finalise Speaker, Deputy Speaker candidates

UNB — Wed, 11 Mar 2026 12:23:28 +0600

The BNP Parliamentary Party (BPP) held a meeting on Wednesday to finalise its candidates for the posts of Speaker and Deputy Speaker ahead of the first session of the 13th Parliament. The meeting began around 11am in the ruling party’s parliamentary party room on the ninth floor of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, said Prime Minister’s Deputy Press Secretary Jahidul Islam Rony. Prime... Details

Nine file nominations for Bogura-6 by-poll, Sherpur-3 polls

BSS — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 15:06:00 +0600

A total of nine candidates have submitted nomination papers for the general election in Sherpur-3 constituency and the by-election in the vacant Bogura-6 constituency. According to the schedule announced by the Election Commission (EC), voting in the two constituencies will be held on April 9 (Thursday) from 7:30am to 4:30pm without any break. EC sources said six candidates have submitted... Details

Reserved women's seats polls soon: EC

BSS — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 19:34:36 +0600

Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Masud today said the election to the reserved women's seats of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad (JS) will be held soon. "Election to the reserved women's seats will be held very soon. We are planning to conduct the polls during Ramadan," he said. Speaking about the by-elections to Sherpur-3 and Bogura-6 constituencies, he said the Election Commission is also... Details

Tarique Rahman sworn in as Prime Minister

UNB — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 18:24:09 +0600

BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman was sworn in as the 11th Prime Minister of Bangladesh on Tuesday. President Mohammed Shahabuddin administered the oath at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad. Earlier, the BNP Parliamentary Party (BPP) unanimously elected party Chairman Tarique Rahman as the Leader of the House. BNP MPs-elect took oath as only members of the 13th parliament, not as members of... Details

BNP MPs-elect take oath as members of parliament

UNB — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 11:17:55 +0600

BNP MPs-elect have taken oath as only members of the 13th parliament, not as members of the Constitution Reform Council on Tuesday morning. Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin administered the oath at 10:43am in line with the Constitution as the posts of Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the 12th Parliament are currently vacant. Parliament Secretariat Secretary Kaniz Moula conducted the... Details

From fortress to fallout; Jatiya Party routed in Rangpur

UNB — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 10:09:19 +0600

In a dramatic political reversal, the Jatiya Party (JP-Ershad) failed to win a single seat in any of the 33 constituencies across Rangpur Division in the 13th national election, an unprecedented defeat in a region long seen as its electoral stronghold. The division, long associated with the party’s late chairman Hussain Muhammad Ershad, delivered a complete rejection of the JP, with... Details

Jamaat-led alliance demands EC recount in 32 seats

UNB — Sun, 15 Feb 2026 17:18:11 +0600

The Jamaat-e-Islami-led 11-party electoral alliance on Sunday demanded that the Election Commission (EC) recount votes in 32 constituencies, alleging manipulation during the counting and result publication of the national election. "Particularly 32 constituencies have been identified. We have been defeated here by a small margin of votes. This is the statement of our candidates....we have... Details

Can India reset ties with a BNP-led Bangladesh?

Click Ittefaq Desk — Sun, 15 Feb 2026 12:25:53 +0600

When the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) swept to a landslide in the general elections on Friday, Delhi responded with studied warmth. In a message posted in Bengali, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated BNP leader Tarique Rahman, the 60-year-old dynast, on a "decisive victory". He pledged India's support for a "democratic, progressive and inclusive" neighbour, reports the BBC. He... Details

EC withholds results of 3 constituencies

UNB — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 11:51:12 +0600

The Election Commission has decided to withhold the results of three constituencies as court cases are pending against the declared winning candidates. The constituencies are Sherpur-2, Chattogram-2 and Chattogram-4. The EC issued three separate letters in this regard on Thursday. The EC said the results are being withheld as cases are pending before the court against the winning candidates... Details

2,028 candidates vying in polls, 83 women: EC

BSS — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 13:08:27 +0600

A total of 2,028 candidates from 50 political parties and independent ones, are contesting in 299 seats in the 13th Jatiya Sangsad polls slated for tomorrow. Of them, 83 are women candidates, said Election Commissioner Brigadier General (retd) Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah. However, voting in Sherpur-3 constituency has been postponed due to the death of a candidate. According to the EC, out... Details

Election atmosphere festive, no reason to worry: EC

UNB — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 21:57:52 +0600

Election Commissioner Brig Gen (retd) Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah on Tuesday said there is no reason for concern over the election, as a festive atmosphere prevails nationwide with enthusiastic voter participation and unprecedented security measures in place. “Voters’ preparations and enthusiasm are clearly visible. Just look at the trains in Dhaka today – a huge number of people... Details

Electioneering ends as parties leave voters with promises

UNB — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 10:35:15 +0600

The curtain fell on Bangladesh’s election campaign on Tuesday morning as political parties wrapped up weeks of intense electioneering. In the final hours, leaders made a series of promises and pledges, leaving voters to reflect on those ahead of the February-12 national election. The restriction on campaigning came into effect at 7:30am as per the parliamentary election... Details

Tasnim Jara criticises phone ban, alleges risk of irregularities

UNB — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 20:34:29 +0600

Independent candidate for the Dhaka-9 constituency Dr Tasnim Jara has alleged that the Election Commission’s decision to ban mobile phones is effectively creating opportunities for irregularities in the electoral process. In a Facebook post on Monday afternoon, she wrote that the sudden decision to ban mobile phones within 400 yards of polling stations is unreasonable, anti-people and... Details

BNP only party capable of rebuilding country: Tarique

UNB — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 17:17:11 +0600

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Monday urged voters across the country to cast their ballots in favour of the ‘Sheaf of Paddy’, saying that the BNP is the only political party with the experience, vision and practical plans needed to rebuild the nation. “BNP is the only party that knows how to run the state properly. We have the experience, the plans and the proven record to... Details

Tarique Rahman to hold 8 roadside rallies today

BSS — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 12:28:09 +0600

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman will address roadside rallies at eight locations in the city today in favor of the 'Sheaf of Paddy'. For the second consecutive day on Monday, the BNP chief will continue this campaign. He will begin his campaign by holding a roadside rally at the Kamal Ataturk Avenue playground in his electoral area of Banani, Dhaka-17 constituency, at 11:00 am. ... Details

'Dhaka to be made ‘safe city’ with 40 new playgrounds'

UNB — Sun, 08 Feb 2026 19:05:30 +0600

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Sunday promised that his party, if elected, would transform Dhaka into a ‘safe city’ and construct at least 40 playgrounds across the capital. “My party, InshaAllah, if elected with your votes and the votes of the people of this country, will transform the cities across the country, including Dhaka, into a safe city,” he said. While... Details

Army, law enforcement agencies deployed from today

BSS — Sun, 08 Feb 2026 12:28:15 +0600

Members of the army and other law enforcement agencies are being deployed across the country from today ahead of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad Election and Referendum scheduled for February 12. The deployment will continue for seven days - four days before polling, on election day, and three days after - until February 14. Talking to BSS, Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Masud said that the... Details

Nearly 1mn security personnel to guard Bangladesh polls

UNB — Sat, 07 Feb 2026 21:59:20 +0600

Nearly one million members from the armed forces and different law enforcement agencies will officially be deployed across the country for seven days from Sunday to maintain law and order as well as contain violation of electoral code of conduct in the referendum and parliamentary elections scheduled for February 12. Besides, 1,051 executive magistrates are being deployed throughout the... Details

'Feb-12 polls a mandate to restore people’s rights, rebuild nation'

UNB — Sat, 07 Feb 2026 15:26:42 +0600

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Saturday said the upcoming national election is not merely about electing public representatives but about restoring people’s rights and rebuilding Bangladesh. “The February-12 election would be an election to rebuild the country as people had been deprived not only of political rights and freedom of expression but had also fallen behind... Details

Jamaat chief pledges to uproot corruption

UNB — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 20:49:28 +0600

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman has called for corruption to be fully eradicated, warning that tackling only its “leaves or branches” would be insufficient. He stressed the need for removing corruption from its roots to ensure good governance and accountability in Bangladesh. Speaking at an election rally at Mehendiganj Government RC College ground in Barishal on... Details

BNP pledges ‘justice-based, prosperous Bangladesh’

UNB — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 18:24:06 +0600

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) on Friday rolled out its manifesto for the 13th Parliamentary Election, pledging to build a justice-based, humane and prosperous Bangladesh under the guiding principle of “Bangladesh First” in state governance. The manifesto outlines wide-ranging commitments to welfare expansion, democratic reforms, economic transformation and institutional... Details

Over 400,000 postal ballots from expats arrive

UNB — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 12:17:33 +0600

A total of 401,460 postal ballots have reached Bangladesh from expatriates registered on the “Postal Vote BD” app for the upcoming 13th Jatiya Sangsad (JS) Election and Referendum. Salim Ahmad Khan, Team Leader of the “OCV-SDI” project on expatriate voter registration, confirmed it to BSS this morning, saying till 9:30 am today, 766,862 ballots were dispatched to... Details

Postal votes to be counted alongside regular ballots: EC

BSS — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 19:16:57 +0600

The Election Commission (EC) has said that the postal ballots will be counted simultaneously with the regular votes after 4:30 pm on the election day (February 12). Salim Ahmad Khan, team leader of the 'OCV-SDI' project on expatriate voter registration, disclosed this information today in a message from the EC. The message stated that in response to various misleading propaganda circulating... Details

BNP to hold its final election rally in Dhaka on Sunday

UNB — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 13:43:26 +0600

BNP will hold its final election rally on Sunday in the capital on February 8, ahead of the national election. The rally will take place at the party’s central office in the capital’s Nayapaltan area at 2:00 pm, with BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman set to address the gathering as the chief guest. BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi Ahmed shared the information with... Details

Tarique to deliver election address on BTV

UNB — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 23:38:46 +0600

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman will deliver an election address to the nation on Bangladesh Television (BTV) on February 9 ( Monday) ahead of the national election for February 12 next. Following a letter sent to the Election Commission by BNP, Tarique Rahman has been allocated the time to air his speech on the state-run broadcaster on February 9 as part of electioneering, said EC Director... Details

Feb 12 polls to mark 'final step in delicate political transition': ICG

UNB — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 23:31:59 +0600

Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, which assumed office amid high public expectations, is approaching the end of its tenure as the country moves closer to elections, that mark "the final step in the delicate political transition that has been under way for a year and a half," according to the International Crisis Group (ICG), the Brussels-based think... Details

Tarique urges women to respond to Jamaat Ameer’s derogatory remarks via ballot

UNB — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 17:42:13 +0600

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Monday strongly criticised Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami over its Ameer’s reported anti-women comments on social media, urging women to deliver a befitting response through the ballot to what he termed derogatory and disgraceful remarks. Addressing an election rally at Khalishpur Prabhati School ground here, he also said the country and its people can never be... Details

Tarique’s campaign set to move to Khulna, Jashore on Monday

UNB — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 14:59:27 +0600

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman will campaign in Khulna and Jashore on Monday, following the completion of his electioneering in the northern region. Tarique will leave Dhaka for Khulna by helicopter at 11:00am on Monday, said BNP Media Cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan. He said the BNP chief is scheduled to join an election rally at 12:00 noon at the Prabhati School ground adjacent to Haji Mohsin... Details

EC tightens rules on electioneering

BSS — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 12:41:27 +0600

The Election Commission (EC) has banned posters in electioneering and also imposed stricter controls on banners as part of its Code of Conduct for the 13th National Parliament Election and the Referendum scheduled for February 12. The campaign period, which began on January 22, will end at midnight on February 10, 48 hours before voting starts. During this time, candidates and political... Details

Jamaat pledges unity govt if voted to power

UNB — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 15:13:31 +0600

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Saturday said his party would invite rival political parties to take part in running the country if Jamaat comes to power with a parliamentary majority. Speaking at a rally at Chouddagram High School ground in Cumilla , he said, “If we achieve a majority, we will offer those who are now competing with us to play a role in governing... Details

Expats send nearly 140,000 postal ballots home

BSS — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 12:56:57 +0600

Expatriates registered through the "Postal Vote BD" app to cast their votes in the 13th Jatiya Sangsad (JS) election and the Referendum have begun sending back their ballots. So far, 139,763 expatriate ballots have arrived in the country, revealed Team Leader of OCV-SDI Project on expatriate voter registration Salim Ahmad Khan on Friday night. He said a total of 766,862 ballot... Details

Tarique Rahman urges ‘Yes’ vote in referendum

UNB — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 00:21:05 +0600

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Friday called upon all to cast a ‘Yes’ vote in the upcoming referendum to be held together with the national election on February 12 next. Addressing a massive public rally at the historic Collectorate Eidgah ground in Rangpur, Tarique Rahman emphasised the importance of national unity. “Rangpur is sacred soil, sanctified by the blood of Abu... Details

Rangpur set for Tarique Rahman’s election rally

UNB — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 16:27:49 +0600

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman is scheduled to address an election rally at the Collectorate Eidgah ground in Rangpur on Friday afternoon as part of his ongoing campaign tour of the northern region. Ahead of the rally, he will visit Pirganj upazila, where he is set to pay homage at the grave of Shaheed Abu Sayed at Babanpur and enquire about the well-being of the martyr’s family members,... Details

Peace, not conflict, Tarique tells Rajshahi rally

UNB — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 18:58:45 +0600

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Thursday called on the interim government to carry out a fair and thorough investigation into the recent incident in Sherpur, stressing that his party seeks peace, not conflict. “We believe in peace. If there is peace, we will be able to implement what we promise. We do not want to get into quarrels or disputes,” he said while addressing an election... Details

Rajshahi city abuzz marking Tarique Rahman's rally

BSS — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 14:33:01 +0600

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairman Tarique Rahman arrived here today to attend several election rallies across his home division. He landed at Shah Makhdum Airport, Rajshahi at 12:15 pm. At 2:00 pm, the BNP Chairman is scheduled to deliver a speech as the chief guest at an election rally at the district's Madrasa Field. Before joining the rally, Tarique Rahman will... Details

'Stay united to ensure BNP’s victory, rebuild Bangladesh'

UNB — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 20:49:38 +0600

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Tuesday urged people, regardless of caste, creed or religion, to remain united like in 1971 and the July Uprising to ensure his party’s victory in the February-12 election and rebuild the country. “We achieved independence through immense sacrifice during the 1971 Liberation War. Later, on August 5, 2024, students and people from all walks of life... Details

Tarique wraps up 2nd phase of campaign with six rallies

UNB — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 14:43:09 +0600

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Sunday completed the second phase of his election campaign by addressing six rallies in a span of around 14 hours, seeking votes for his party’s candidates as well as alliance partners. He spoke at the final rally at Narayanganj’s Balurmath around 2:15am, said BNP Media Cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan. Tarique returned to his Gulshan residence at... Details

Elections for all, but women left ‘on the sidelines’ in Bangladesh

UNB — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 14:58:01 +0600

With women making up only 3.6 percent of candidates, political parties are once again sidelining female presence ahead of the February-12 national election. Out of 1,732 party-nominated candidates, only 63 are women, while an additional 19 women are contesting the election as independent contenders. In total, 82 women candidates are in the race among 1,983 contestants across the country’s 300... Details

'No hide-and-seek, polls to be transparent'

UNB — Sun, 25 Jan 2026 14:52:50 +0600

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin on Sunday assured foreign diplomats that the upcoming national election will be held in transparent and credible manners amid foolproof security arrangement, leaving no scope for ‘hide-and-seek’. “We want a very transparent and credible election so that there will be no matter of hide-and-seek,” he said while talking to... Details

No deal with India, says BNP dismissing Jamaat allegation

UNB — Sat, 24 Jan 2026 16:50:12 +0600

BNP on Saturday dismissed an allegation by Jamaat-e-Islami’s Nayeb-e-Ameer Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher regarding an alleged agreements with India, calling it a 'political smear' with no factual basis. “A very influential leader of a political party has made a claim about BNP’s deal with India, referring to the media. But he could not present any evidence in support of his... Details

Tarique appeals to voters, highlights BNP’s track record

UNB — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 23:36:43 +0600

Claiming that Bangladesh made good progress and people’s lives improved whenever his party was in power, BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Friday urged voters to support the party in the upcoming election to change their fortunes. “We have seen in the past who truly stood by the people. If we consider all past actions, we will see that whenever the people of this country elected the... Details

Few women in the race as Bangladesh goes to polls

UNB — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 15:21:21 +0600

Despite decades of pledges to ensure women’s political empowerment, the upcoming national election paints a starkly different picture, with female representation on the ballot remaining alarmingly low. More than 30 registered political parties, including Jamaat-e-Islami, have fielded no female candidates, leaving women to make up less than 4.5% of all aspirants in the 13th parliamentary... Details

Candidates allocated symbols, campaign begins Thursday

BSS — Wed, 21 Jan 2026 23:40:37 +0600

The Election Commission (EC) has completed the allocation of symbols for 1,973 candidates contesting 298 constituencies across the country for the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election. With the symbol allocation completed, candidates will be able to start their campaigns from tomorrow, EC officials said. Returning officers across the 298 constituencies conducted the symbol allocation... Details

Tarique Rahman to kick off electioneering with Sylhet tour

UNB — Wed, 21 Jan 2026 12:31:04 +0600

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman is set to embark on a hectic two-day tour of Sylhet tonight (Wednesday) to formally begin his party’s election campaign for the 13th national parliamentary election, following the party’s long-standing tradition. “Since the election campaign is scheduled to begin tomorrow (Thursday) as per the announced timetable, BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman is... Details

Postal ballots dispatched to 3.73 lakh expats

BSS — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 14:29:21 +0600

Postal ballots have reached the addresses of 373,398 expatriate voters residing in different countries across the world to cast their votes in the upcoming 13th Jatiya Sangsad election and referendum. Among them, 196,625 voters have already scanned the QR code, according to Election Commission (EC). Expatriate voters registered for postal ballots will be able to exercise their voting... Details

JCD protests at Nirbachan Bhaban over EC role

UNB — Sun, 18 Jan 2026 14:38:53 +0600

Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD), the student wing of BNP, on Sunday continues its demonstration in front of Nirbachan Bhaban protesting the Election Commission’s ‘biased and controversial’ role ahead of the upcoming national election slated for February 12 next. JCD activists staged a sit-in programme at 10:00am in front of the Nirbachan Bhaban in the city’s Agargaon... Details

Tarique says BNP shows restraint despite EC controversy

UNB — Sat, 17 Jan 2026 17:53:32 +0600

Urging all to remain vigilant against any attempts to obstruct the path of democratic transition, BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Saturday said his party still intends to show restraint despite what he described as the Election Commission’s recent controversial roles and positions. Speaking at a views-exchange meeting with family members of victims of enforced disappearances, killings and... Details

Sixth day of EC hearings on candidacy underway

BSS — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 11:39:26 +0600

The Election Commission (EC) today began the sixth day of hearings on appeals related to candidacy for the 13th Jatiya Sangsad election. The hearings against the decisions of returning officers over acceptance and rejection of nomination papers started at 10:00am this morning at the auditorium of the Election Building in the city’s Agargaon area. According to the EC-announced schedule,... Details

Elections will be held on Feb 12, CA reaffirms US diplomats

BSS — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 13:25:40 +0600

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Tuesday reaffirmed his government’s commitment to hold the general elections and the referendum as scheduled on February 12. The Chief Adviser made the remarks when two former senior United States diplomats—Albert Gombis and Morse Tan, both of whom served during the Donald Trump administration—called on him at the State Guest House... Details

EC hearings reopen race for 41 more candidates

UNB — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 20:21:54 +0600

The Election Commission on Monday (January 12, 2026) allowed 41 previously rejected aspirants to contest the February-12 national election after hearings, while a Jamaat candidate for Chattogram-9 was declared invalid and a BNP aspirant for Sherpur-2 was kept pending. But the EC as the Electoral Appeal Tribunal turned down the appeal petitions of 24 other aspirants, including Jamaat-e-Islami... Details

EU to send large election observation team to Bangladesh

BSS — Sun, 11 Jan 2026 21:05:53 +0600

Chief Observer of the European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) Ivars Ijabs today said the EU is going to send a large election observation team to Bangladesh, noting that the forthcoming election will be historic for the country. Ijabs said this at a meeting with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna here this morning. "Chief Observer of the... Details

Tarique to kick off BNP’s electioneering from Sylhet

UNB — Sun, 11 Jan 2026 17:33:27 +0600

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman will formally launch his party’s election campaign for the 13th national parliamentary election from Sylhet on January 22. “Tarique Rahman will go to Sylhet on January 22. However, the detailed tour plan is yet to be finalised,” his Press Secretary Saleh Shibly told UNB. Traditionally, Shibly said, the BNP begins its national election campaign... Details

EC starts appeal hearings on nominations

BSS — Sat, 10 Jan 2026 13:49:06 +0600

The Election Commission (EC) today began hearing of appeals filed against the decisions of returning officers on the acceptance and rejection of nomination papers for the upcoming 13th Jatiya Sangsad election. The appeal hearings are being held from 10 am to 5 pm at the Election Commission auditorium located on the basement-2 of the Election Building in the capital’s Agargaon. The... Details

EC thrashes reports of polls postponement in Pabna-1, Pabna-2

UNB — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 15:06:35 +0600

The Election Commission (EC) on Friday dismissed reports claiming that elections in the Pabna-1 and Pabna-2 constituencies had been postponed. “The information attributed to the EC is not correct,” the commission said in a handout issued this afternoon, requesting that the news broadcast on the matter be withdrawn or stopped. Earlier, several television channels and media outlets... Details

Tarique set for 4-day visit to northern districts from Sunday

UNB — Wed, 07 Jan 2026 13:56:50 +0600

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman will begin his first tour outside Dhaka through the northern region after returning to the country, with a four-day visit starting on January 11. According to the final schedule, Tarique will leave Dhaka on January 11 and return on January 14. During this time, he will visit nine districts in the northern region. On January 11, he will travel to Tangail,... Details

Nomination scrutiny ends today; EC issues appeal guidelines

BSS — Sun, 04 Jan 2026 17:36:34 +0600

The scrutiny of nomination papers by Returning Officers for the 13th Jatiya Sangsad Election will be completed today, while the Election Commission (EC) has also released the prescribed format for filing appeals against the acceptance or rejection of nomination papers. Appeals can be submitted from January 5 to January 9 until 5:00 pm, according to an EC secretariat statement here. The... Details

Tarique likely to helm BNP

Click Ittefaq Desk. — Sat, 03 Jan 2026 15:29:27 +0600

With the death of Begum Khaleda Zia, the post of “Chairperson” of the BNP has fallen vacant. According to the party constitution, Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has automatically assumed the responsibilities of chairman. However, no party decision has yet been made regarding when, how, and through what process he will be formally declared chairman. With the national parliamentary election... Details

'Jamaat, BNP should work together for next 5yrs'

UNB — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 21:10:50 +0600

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Thursday said Jamaat and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) should work together for the next five years to restore a congenial environment in the interest of national stability. “We have said that for the sake of our much-loved country, we worked together in the past and, InshaAllah, we will work together in the future as well.... Details

Highest 18 candidates file nominations in Dhaka-12, Gazipur-2

UNB — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 17:10:42 +0600

The highest number of candidates—18 each—submitted nomination papers in Dhaka-12 and Gazipur-2 constituencies while the lowest number of aspirants—two—filed nominations in Pirojpur-1 for the 13th parliamentary election. According to the latest count of the Election Commission, a total of 2,570 candidates submitted nomination papers before the deadline expired on Monday... Details

BNP enters election race with anti-fascist movement allies

UNB — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 23:06:36 +0600

BNP has formed its electoral alliance largely with parties that stood by it during the anti-fascist movement, bringing together moderate democratic, left-leaning and right-leaning groups, even though seat-sharing talks failed with several others. As part of its electoral strategy, the BNP has formally brought some alliance leaders into the party and given them its election symbol:... Details

Actively contribute to nation-building: Tarique to BNP activists

UNB — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 16:55:40 +0600

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Monday urged party leaders and activists to actively contribute to nation-building by performing their responsibilities with sincerity and commitment from their respective positions. “Let us all, from whatever position we are in, try to rebuild our country anew,” he said in a brief address at the BNP’s Nayapaltan central office in the... Details

Tarique’s nomination papers submitted for Dhaka-17 seat

UNB — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 12:52:17 +0600

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman’s nomination papers for the Dhaka-17 constituency were submitted on Monday to contest the upcoming national election from the seat, alongside Bogura-6. On behalf of Tarique, a BNP delegation, led by BNP Chairperson’s Advisory Council member Abdus Salam, submitted the nomination papers around 11:46am at the office of the Dhaka Divisional... Details

Tarique Rahman added in voter list

BSS — Sun, 28 Dec 2025 17:56:26 +0600

The Election Commission has approved the inclusion of BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman in the country’s voter list ahead of the national election and referendum scheduled for February 12, 2026. “The inclusion of Tarique Rahman in the voter list has been approved by the Election Commission,” said EC Director (Public Relation) Ruhul Amin Mallik on Sunday afternoon. Earlier... Details

Tarique Rahman to contest polls from Bogura-6, Dhaka-17

UNB — Sun, 28 Dec 2025 09:58:37 +0600

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman will contest the 13th parliamentary election billed for February 12 next year from two constituencies--Bogura-6 and Dhaka-17. BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed confirmed the decision while speaking to UNB on Saturday night. “Our party’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman will contest the election from two seats. One is Bogura-6 and the... Details

‘I’ve a plan for Bangladesh,’ says Tarique Rahman

UNB — Thu, 25 Dec 2025 20:43:07 +0600

Emphasising the need for maintaining peace, BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Thursday said he has a plan for the country and its people and sought the cooperation from all for its implementation. “We want peace in every possible way…if we remain united we can fulfill the expectations of the people,” he said while addressing party leaders, supporters and the nation at a... Details

Over 7.17 lakh voters register for 13th national polls

BSS — Thu, 25 Dec 2025 19:58:35 +0600

A total of 717,217 voters have so far registered their names to cast their votes in the upcoming 13th national parliament election and referendum through postal ballot, Election Commission (EC) said. Apart from expatriate Bangladeshis, government officials and employees engaged in electoral duties, as well as government employees residing outside their designated voting areas, are... Details

BNP allocates 8 seats to 7 partner parties

BSS — Wed, 24 Dec 2025 16:44:14 +0600

In a significant step toward opposition unity, BNP has reached an electoral understanding with seven allied parties from the anti-fascist movement allocating eight parliamentary seats in the upcoming national election. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir announced the list at a press conference at the Chairperson's office this afternoon. The allotted seats and candidates are-... Details

'If upcoming election fails, Bangladesh fails'

UNB — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 22:07:35 +0600

The Election Commission (EC) on Tuesday instructed field administration and police officials to take all necessary legal measures to ensure a smooth and violence-free national election and referendum, warning that failure to hold a credible poll would amount to failure of the country itself. “If this election fails, we all will fail — Bangladesh will fail,” Election... Details

BNP smells 'dangerous plots' against democratic transition

UNB — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 17:22:24 +0600

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Tuesday alleged that a vested quarter is ‘dangerously conspiring’ to obstruct Bangladesh’s democratic transition process. “Bangladesh is now going through a transition period. A brutal fascist rule destroyed our values, democratic institutions and the economy,” he said while speaking at a press conference at the... Details

CA urges voters to choose honest, capable candidates

BSS — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 18:57:39 +0600

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today urged the voters to cast their ballots for candidates of their choice to elect honest and capable candidates in the upcoming parliamentary elections slated for February 12, 2026. “You are the owner of the country. You will decide who will run this country on behalf you for the next five years. Vote for the candidate of your choice. Choose an... Details

'Vote'r Gari' campaign to begin this afternoon

BSS — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 10:18:57 +0600

A voter awareness campaign titled 'Vote'r Gari' (Vehicle of Vote) will begin this afternoon to encourage and motivate voters ahead of the upcoming 13th Jatiya Sangsad election and the 2026 referendum. Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus will inaugurate the campaign through a video message at 4:00 pm today at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, according to an official handout... Details

No need to be kind to election disruptors: EC to law enforcers

UNB — Sun, 21 Dec 2025 20:08:12 +0600

The Election Commission has instructed law enforcement agencies to treat courteously only those who act humanely with fairness, while taking strict action against individuals who disrupt the electoral process through vandalism and violence. “We have clearly instructed all forces and agencies that we will be humane towards those who are humane. But there is no need to be humane towards... Details

Chiefs of Three Service meet EC

BSS — Sun, 21 Dec 2025 13:37:19 +0600

The chiefs of the Army, Navy and Air Force have sat in a meeting with the Election Commission (EC), led by Chief Election Commissioner A M M Nasir Uddin, ahead of the upcoming 13th Jatiya Sangsad Election and referendum. The meeting began at 12:00 noon today at the Election Building in the capital’s Agargaon, EC Secretariat Director (Public Relations and Information) Md Ruhul Amin Mallik... Details

EC begins sending postal ballots to expats for JS polls

UNB — Sat, 20 Dec 2025 23:22:48 +0600

The Election Commission (EC) on Friday started sending postal ballots to expatriate voters who registered through the ‘Postal Vote BD’ app to exercise their voting rights in the 13th national election and referendum. Salim Ahmad Khan, team leader of the Out of Country Voting System Development and Implementation (OCV-SDI) project for expatriate voter registration, confirmed BSS... Details

BNP pays homage to Osman Hadi

UNB — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 22:54:26 +0600

BNP on Friday paid tributes to Inquilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi as his body arrived at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport from Singapore in the evening. On behalf of the party, BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed and Acting Chairman’s adviser Dr Mahdi Amin paid the tributes to Hadi by placing a wreath on his coffin at the airport, said BNP Media Cell member... Details

EC invites applications from international polls observers

UNB — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 19:38:25 +0600

The Election Commission has invited applications from the International Election Observers or Observer Organisations and the Foreign Media intending to monitor the upcoming referendum and national election scheduled for February 12. International observers or observer organisations and the foreign media were asked to apply by January 17, 2026 in line with the ‘Guidelines for International... Details

EC issues instructions ahead of 13th nat'l polls

BSS — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 15:46:14 +0600

The Election Commission (EC) today issued a set of instructions ahead of the 13th national parliamentary election slated for February 12, 2026, according to an official handout. Under the directives, government employees staying outside their respective voter areas must register for postal voting through the 'Postal Vote BD' app by December 25. Officials engaged in election duties are... Details

EC urges equal media coverage for all candidates

UNB — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 17:49:26 +0600

The Election Commission (EC) has called for equal opportunities for all candidates in election coverage on Bangladesh Television and private TV channels. Creating a congenial environment is crucial for free, fair, and credible elections, said an EC statement signed by Md Ruhul Amin Mollick, director (public relations) of the organization, on Wednesday. State and private media can play a... Details

Tough days ahead as conspiracies persist, warns Tarique

UNB — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 12:14:18 +0600

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Tuesday urged party leaders and activists to remain alert and united, warning that the days ahead will be challenging as conspiracies against the country continue. “I am saying again, the time ahead will not be easy. Everyone must stay alert and united,” he said. The BNP leader made the remarks while addressing a discussion meeting organised... Details

EU deploys election observation mission to Bangladesh

UNB — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 11:31:20 +0600

In response to a formal invitation by Bangladesh authorities, the High Representative/Vice President of the European Commission Kaja Kallas has decided to deploy an EU Election Observation Mission (EOM) to observe the parliamentary elections scheduled for 12 February 2026. The High Representative has appointed Ivars Ijabs, Member of the European Parliament, as its chief observer. "I am... Details

BNP prepares for Tarique’s return

UNB — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 22:03:50 +0600

BNP has completed preparations for the residence and offices of its Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman ahead of his return to Bangladesh after nearly 18 years in exile in London. Party leaders said Tarique, the eldest son of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman and Chairperson Khaleda Zia, will move into house number 196 on Gulshan Avenue. The BNP Chairperson currently lives at a rented residence,... Details

National election as per schedule, no fear: Tarique Rahman

UNB — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 21:37:57 +0600

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Monday urged people to stay united against all conspiracies, assuring that there is no reason to fear and that the national election will be held on schedule. Speaking at a discussion virtually, he said the gun attack on Sharif Osman bin Hadi, a potential independent candidate from the Dhaka-8 constituency, is part of a conspiracy to disrupt the election.... Details

No uncertainty over national election, reaffirms CEC

UNB — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 13:48:55 +0600

Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin on Monday reaffirmed that there is no uncertainty over the upcoming national election as it will be held in free, fair and competitive manners on time. “InshaAllah, rest assured-- we will rightly see a fair, nice and competitive election at the right time,” he said while inaugurating a Youth Voter Festival in the city’s Gulshan... Details

Can Bangladesh’s arms crackdown ensure peaceful polls?

UNB — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 10:19:40 +0600

As the national election approaches, law enforcement agencies have stepped up operations to recover illegal firearms, aiming to prevent violence, sabotage and broader security threats. As in previous election cycles, police, the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and intelligence agencies are conducting special drives nationwide. Yet a critical question persists: how effective are these efforts on... Details

Tarique Rahman vows to ensure law & order, fight corruption

UNB — Sun, 14 Dec 2025 23:24:22 +0600

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Sunday said his party will prioritise ensuring law and order and tackling corruption if voted to power. “Those who will form the government after winning the election must first ensure one thing, and that is the rule of law. In simple terms, it means people’s security or law and order. I think our foremost effort should be to ensure this with all our... Details

Fakhrul warns of ‘targeted killings’ after gun attack on Hadi

UNB — Sun, 14 Dec 2025 12:31:33 +0600

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Sunday (December 14, 2025) voiced concern that incidents similar to the gun attack on Sharif Osman Hadi may recur, warning that the enemies of Bangladesh are once again resorting to targeted killings in an attempt to destabilise the country. “When Bangladesh is seeing a new sun and moving towards a new chapter, and when the people of... Details

Political parties meet Chief Adviser to safeguard July Uprising

BSS — Sat, 13 Dec 2025 17:43:18 +0600

Leaders of major political parties at a meeting with the Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today said that they are united in resisting all attempts to undermine the July Uprising. They made the commitment describing the attack on Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of Inquilab Mancha and a potential independent candidate for Dhaka-8, as part of a conspiracy to foil the uprising. Leaders of... Details