NN Online:
The Election Commission (EC) is making preparations for the upcoming parliamentary elections, targeting December as the probable time frame.
On Sunday (February 23), Election Commissioner Md. Anwarul Islam Sarkar provided this information while addressing journalists at his office in the Election Commission building.
He stated that the government has indicated a timeframe between December 2025 and June 2026 for the national elections. “We are progressing with preparations, keeping December as the target,” he said.
When asked about the election schedule, he responded, “You can calculate it yourselves.” Typically, the EC announces the election schedule 40 to 45 days before the polls. Acknowledging this, he added, “It has to be done accordingly.”
Regarding the consensus required for legal reforms, the election commissioner remarked, “I am repeating myself—this is a matter of consensus. There might be agreements on necessary legal amendments. The time needed for our preparations will depend on when such consensus is reached. If we receive a decision tomorrow, we will have a specific timeframe. However, if it is delayed, our available time will shorten. We hope to announce the election schedule within a reasonable timeframe.”
When questioned about external pressure regarding the election schedule or voting process, he firmly denied any such influence. “We are under no pressure, nor will we succumb to any. You have seen our Chief Election Commissioner’s statement yesterday. The EC will not conduct elections under any pressure, influence, or directives. As we have said before, our priority is to ensure a free and impartial election that reflects the people’s aspirations. If we cannot conduct it independently and neutrally, then… is there no alternative to not conducting it? It must be done,” he asserted.
