Elections may be held in Bangladesh in February, Yunus hinted after meeting Khaleda’s son in London

London. Professor Muhammad Yunus, Chief Advisor of the Interim Government of Bangladesh, has hinted that the next national elections in the country may be held in early February 2026. The statement comes after a crucial meeting with Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting President Tariq Rehman in London, which many consider a “game-changer” for Bangladesh politics.

London meeting and election timeline
Yunus became the head of the interim government after the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government in August 2024. He met with Tariq Rehman during a four-day official visit to London. In this meeting, the two leaders discussed the political situation in the country, reforms and the timeline of elections. “The Chief Advisor announced that elections can be held in the first week of February next year if all preparations are completed,” a joint statement said.

Tariq Rehman, son of BNP chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, suggested that the elections be held before Ramadan, i.e. by mid-February 2026. Khaleda Zia also supported this timeline. Yunus said that the timing would be suitable in terms of weather and religious period.

Electoral reforms and voter list
The London meeting also decided that the voting age will remain at 18 and the voter list will not be updated afresh. These decisions are considered important to move the country rapidly towards an elected government by mid-February 2026. According to sources, Yunus and the BNP agreed to an inclusive process, in which administrative reforms will also be accelerated.

Yunus stressed that the main goal of his government is to ensure “clean, festive, peaceful and wide participation” elections. He also said that the contribution of the young leaders of the student-led revolution of July 2024 will always be remembered.

Tariq Rahman’s return
Another important outcome of the meeting is the possibility of Tariq Rahman’s return to Bangladesh. After living in exile in London for 16 years, his return can infuse new energy among BNP supporters. This move can create new equations in Bangladesh politics. Earlier announcement and controversy Earlier, on June 6, Yunus had announced that national elections would be held in April 2026, which was opposed by the BNP and other opposition parties. The BNP had demanded elections by December 2025, with the support of the military. Yunus was also criticised for his “reforms first, then elections” policy, as many believed that this policy could increase political instability in the country. However, after the London meeting, Yunus has somewhat accepted the demands of the BNP and other parties by indicating a deadline of February 2026. This move is seen as important towards maintaining public support for his government and reducing political tensions.