Bangladesh Elections Spark Row: Awami League Rejects Poll Dates, Attacks Yunus Government

Dhaka: Bangladesh’s ruling Awami League, led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has strongly rejected the announcement of next year’s national elections. The party also accused Chief Adviser Mohammad Yunus’ government of being aligned with a “murderous and fascist” faction, questioning its ability to conduct free and fair polls.

The Election Commission, under Yunus’ leadership, had declared on Thursday that elections would be held on 12 February 2026. The Awami League described this move as illegal and politically motivated, claiming that the current government cannot ensure transparency, impartiality, or reflect the will of the people.

Awami League’s Strong Statement
In an official statement from its headquarters at 23 Bangabandhu Avenue in Dhaka, the Awami League said it had closely reviewed the election schedule issued by the “illegal, usurping, murderous-fascist Yunus group.” The statement emphasized that the interim government is biased and cannot guarantee a fair environment where transparency or voter intent is respected.

Accusations of Political Exclusion
The Awami League, highlighting its historic political role, said it has participated in 13 national elections since its inception, winning nine and forming the government multiple times. The party accused the election timetable of being deliberately designed to marginalize it from the political process, warning that holding polls without its participation would push the country into a severe crisis.

Demands for a Fair Poll
The party demanded the immediate removal of all restrictions, withdrawal of fabricated cases against Sheikh Hasina and other leaders, unconditional release of all political prisoners, and the establishment of a neutral caretaker government before any elections. “The Awami League rejects the announced election schedule, which excludes the majority of the country’s representatives,” the statement concluded.