Banks to Close for Parliamentary Elections

In anticipation of the Thirteenth National Parliamentary Election and the accompanying referendum, all scheduled banks across Bangladesh will remain closed on 11 and 12 February, corresponding to Wednesday and Thursday respectively. During these two days, in-branch banking services, including cash withdrawals and transactions, will be suspended, although online and mobile banking services are expected to remain operational.

The announcement was confirmed on Sunday by the Supervisory Data Management and Analytics Department (SDAD) of Bangladesh Bank. The statement highlighted that, following a government notification issued by the Ministry of Public Administration on 25 January, these two days have been officially declared public holidays by executive order to facilitate a smooth electoral process.

According to Bangladesh Bank, the directive has been issued under the authority conferred by Section 45 of the Bank Companies Act, 1991, and has been circulated to the managing directors and chief executive officers of all scheduled banks operating in the country. The central bank emphasised that adherence to the order is mandatory, ensuring uniform closure across all branches.

Officials have advised the public and business organisations to make necessary preparations in advance, as the temporary suspension of services may affect routine financial transactions, including salary disbursements, tax payments, and loan settlements. Although branch operations will be halted, certain emergency services may continue in select branches, and customers can still utilise online banking and mobile applications for immediate financial requirements.

The closure schedule is summarised below:

The central bank has also urged business entities, government and non-government offices, and educational institutions to plan their financial activities accordingly. Customers are encouraged to complete essential transactions, including cash withdrawals and cheque clearances, prior to the closure dates. The move is intended to maintain order during the elections while allowing for uninterrupted access to digital banking services where possible.

Bangladesh Bank further reassured that these temporary closures are standard procedure during national elections and are aimed at supporting both administrative efficiency and public convenience. By providing clear guidance in advance, authorities hope to minimise any disruption and ensure that all banking activities resume normally on 13 February, following the electoral period.