Bangladesh’s interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, has announced that general elections will take place in February 2026. He made this announcement during a national address on the first anniversary of the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government. Yunus came to power after mass protests led to the removal of the long-time prime minister last year. Thousands of citizens gathered in Dhaka to mark the revolution with rallies, prayers, and concerts.
The main event was held outside the Parliament building, where Yunus issued the “July Declaration.” This declaration called for the 2024 student-led revolution to be formally recognized in the country’s constitution. Yunus said the movement reflected the people’s will and must be honored. Supporters say the declaration could spark institutional reforms, while critics see it as symbolic without legal backing.
Yunus emphasized that the people of Bangladesh want the revolution’s values to shape the future. He said the next government should include the declaration in a new constitution. He also stressed that reforms are needed to prevent any return to authoritarian rule. According to him, the state must respond quickly if signs of fascism appear again.
He confirmed that he will formally ask the election commission to organize the national polls in February. He promised that the elections would be peaceful, transparent, and fair. He also urged political parties to prepare for a democratic transition. Yunus assured that all institutions would work together to support the election process.
The revolution last year forced former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to flee to India on August 5, 2024. Since then, the country has been under interim rule. The public continues to demand accountability and reforms. With elections now on the horizon, Bangladesh enters a critical phase in shaping its political future.