Despite Confusion and Uncertainty, Election Possibility Emerging: Fakhrul

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has stated that, despite confusion, frustration, and uncertainty, there is now a possibility of holding the national elections. He mentioned that elections could potentially take place in February 2026, but warned that some groups are deliberately trying to create uncertainty in the country.

Speaking as the chief guest at a discussion organized at the National Press Club in Dhaka on Sunday afternoon, Fakhrul made these remarks. The event was held to mark the 49th death anniversary of the late popular leader Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhasani and was organized by the National Committee for Observing Maulana Bhasani’s Death Anniversary.

Fakhrul emphasized that, despite all the confusion and uncertainty, a chance for the election in February 2026 has emerged. He noted that some factions are attempting to disrupt, delay, or block the election by raising various demands. He stressed that the country’s people urgently need an elected government supported by the public.

He urged all political parties to responsibly support the election process without delay, enabling the people to elect their representatives.

Commenting on the state of the economy, Fakhrul said the situation is worsening day by day. He warned that without an elected government, the country’s economic condition and law-and-order situation would further deteriorate.

Fakhrul also expressed concern over potential unrest, stating that certain groups are planning chaos in connection with the verdict on Sheikh Hasina’s alleged atrocities. He emphasized that all political parties must act responsibly to prevent instability.

Economist Mahbub Ullah, who also spoke at the event, noted that although the government has strongly announced the February elections, current conditions cast a shadow of uncertainty. He warned that failing to hold elections on time could trigger a major crisis for the country.

He also raised concerns about the upcoming referendum, questioning whether the public would fully understand the four proposed questions, given that a significant portion of Bangladesh’s population is still illiterate. He stressed the importance of political unity among those who love the country and highlighted the need to reduce divisions created after the July uprising, work for the nation, and unite to strengthen democracy, as national independence and sovereignty cannot exist without it.

Mahbub Ullah further stated that the people will not tolerate any obstacles on the path of democracy. He recalled that previous elections under Sheikh Hasina lacked popular participation and were supported by neighboring India, underscoring the importance of democratic struggle against domination. He urged that all necessary measures be taken to ensure the upcoming election is free, fair, and uninterrupted.

He called on Professor Muhammad Yunus, chief advisor of the caretaker government, to take all necessary steps to ensure that the February elections, as announced, are successfully conducted.

The discussion was chaired by BNP Vice Chairman Shamsuzzaman, with speeches from BNP Advisory Council member Syed Moazzem Hossain Alal and BNP Joint Secretary General Abdus Salam Azad, among others.