World News
Bangladesh Election 2026 : US Embassy Issues Nationwide Security Alert in Bangladesh Ahead of February 2026 Elections
The US Embassy in Dhaka has issued a nationwide security alert warning of possible violence in Bangladesh ahead of the February 12, 2026 parliamentary elections and national referendum.
The United States Embassy in Dhaka has issued a nationwide security alert for American citizens in Bangladesh, warning of potential unrest ahead of the country’s parliamentary elections and a national referendum scheduled for February 12, 2026.
In an advisory released on Monday, the embassy cautioned that political rallies, demonstrations and election-related activities are expected to intensify as the polling date approaches. It warned that even gatherings intended to be peaceful could quickly turn violent. US citizens have been advised to remain vigilant, avoid large crowds and demonstrations, closely follow local media reports, and stay aware of their surroundings.
The alert follows the Election Commission of Bangladesh’s formal announcement last week confirming the election schedule. For the first time in the country’s history, voting for all 300 parliamentary seats will be held on the same day as a national referendum.
The February 2026 polls carry added political significance as they will be the first national elections since the student-led uprising in August 2024 that led to the ouster of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. Since then, Bangladesh has been governed by an interim administration headed by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus.
According to the announced timeline, candidates will be able to submit nomination papers on December 29, 2025. Campaigning will begin on January 22, 2026, and will continue until 48 hours before polling day.
Alongside the parliamentary elections, voters will participate in a nationwide referendum on the proposed “July Charter.” The charter outlines wide-ranging reforms aimed at restructuring state institutions, limiting executive powers and strengthening judicial independence. It is widely viewed as a cornerstone of Bangladesh’s political transition following the events of 2024.
Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin announced the election schedule in a televised address on state broadcaster Bangladesh Television and state radio Bangladesh Betar, stating that the Election Commission is committed to ensuring a free, fair and inclusive electoral process.
The US Embassy reiterated that American citizens requiring assistance should contact the embassy in Dhaka and strongly advised avoiding areas where political protests or election-related activities are taking place.
