DHAKA: Bangladesh’s interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, today announced that general elections will be held in February 2026, marking the completion of one year since the end of Sheikh Hasina’s authoritarian government.
Today, thousands of citizens gathered in the capital Dhaka to commemorate the first anniversary of the mass protests that overthrew Sheikh Hasina’s regime, featuring rallies, prayer ceremonies, and concerts.
The main event took place outside the Parliament building, where Muhammad Yunus declared the ‘July Declaration,’ demanding that the student and popular revolution of 2024 be given constitutional recognition.This revolution compelled then-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to flee to India on August 5, 2024, amid intense public pressure.
Addressing representatives of political parties, Muhammad Yunus stated, “The people of Bangladesh desire that the student and popular revolution of 2024 be recognized at the constitutional and state levels.”He further said that the ‘July Declaration’ will be incorporated into the new constitution drafted by the government formed after the upcoming elections.
Supporters of this declaration believe it could lay the foundation for institutional reforms, while critics argue that without parliamentary consensus and a legal framework, its impact will remain symbolic.Muhammad Yunus announced that he will request the Election Commission to organize national elections in February 2026. He added, “We must ensure that no future government succumbs to fascism. The state structure must be improved so that any signs of fascism can be immediately eliminated.”
He also expressed confidence that the upcoming elections will be peaceful, fair, and transparent.
