The Chief Adviser of the interim government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, is expected to address the nation today, 5 August, marking one year since the fall of the Awami League government. According to sources, he is also scheduled to read out the July Declaration at 5:00 PM from the South Plaza of the National Parliament. Several sources have hinted that he may announce the schedule for the 13th National Parliamentary Election during this address.
Key Expectations Surrounding the Speech
Government-aligned sources have confirmed that the Chief Adviser is likely to make remarks regarding the election either on 5 August or 8 August, with 5 August considered the more probable date. These sources suggest that he may declare the general election will take place in February. The specific date and schedule are expected to be announced later by the Election Commission.
Possible Election Timeline
| Event | Details |
| Possible Month of Election | February 2026 |
| Probable Election Date | Thursday, 12 February 2026 (or earlier) |
| Ramadan Begins (Estimated) | 18 February 2026 |
| Voting Must Conclude Before | Beginning of Ramadan |
| Tentative Schedule Announcement | Mid to Late December 2025 |
| Standard Tofsil Lead Time | 50–60 days before the election date (per Representation of the People Order 1972) |
Historical Precedents: Schedule Announcement Gaps
| Parliament | Days Between Schedule and Voting |
| 5th Parliament (1990) | 73 Days |
| 9th Parliament | 56 Days |
| 10th Parliament | 45 Days (Uncontested Election) |
| 11th Parliament | 51 Days |
| 12th Parliament | 52 Days |
Remarks from Election Officials
- Election Commissioner Abdul Rahmanel Masud stated yesterday that if the election is held in February, it must take place in the first half of the month, ahead of Ramadan.
- An Election Commission official confirmed preparations are already underway for an early-February election.
“We are working in full gear to ensure a smooth election,” said Chief Election Commissioner A.M.M. Nasir Uddin.
Army Chief, in September last year, mentioned the election would be held within 18 months, which includes February 2026.
Political Developments Leading to the Current Discussion
- On 6 June, in a national address, Chief Adviser Yunus stated the election could be held any time before April 2026. This was rejected by BNP and its allies.
- A joint statement issued after a 13 June meeting in London between Tarique Rahman, Acting Chair of BNP, and officials of the interim government, suggested that the election could be held even in the week before Ramadan.
During a meeting with political parties on 26 July, the Chief Adviser assured them that the exact election date would be announced soon.
Mostafa Jamal Haider, Chairman of Jatiya Party (Kazi Zafar faction), quoted the Chief Adviser as saying:
“The date will be announced within four to five days.”
Indicators Pointing to 12 February
Taking all current developments into account, including:
- The interim government’s timeline
- The beginning of Ramadan
- Feedback from the Election Commission
- Political agreements following opposition negotiations
—12 February 2026 is emerging as the strongest contender for the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election date.
