Bangladesh to Hold Referendum Alongside February Elections

Bangladesh is set to hold a national referendum alongside its upcoming parliamentary elections in February 2026, Chief Advisor of the Interim Government Muhammad Yunus announced on Wednesday. The move is aimed at implementing key reforms outlined in the July National Charter, though it has sparked political debate across the nation.

“After considering all issues, we have decided to hold a referendum on the same day as the national election,” Yunus said. “This will not hinder reform efforts but will make the election more festive and a savior for us. We are making all necessary arrangements for the referendum.”

The July National Charter, developed by the National Consensus Commission, proposes comprehensive reforms to Bangladesh’s constitution, electoral system, and administrative framework. Among the proposed changes are the creation of a 100-member upper house, enhanced powers for the President, term limits for the Prime Minister, and increased representation of women in Parliament. The referendum will also address the election of parliamentary committee chairs from opposition parties, judicial independence, and strengthened local governance.

Political parties are divided over the referendum. The Jamaat-E-Islami Bangladesh has long demanded such a vote, while the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) opposes it, arguing that major reforms should be implemented only by an elected government with a democratic mandate. Critics also argue that the referendum introduces extra-constitutional provisions.

In the referendum, voters will be able to cast a single 'Yes' or 'No' vote on the key reforms proposed by the July Charter, giving citizens a direct say in shaping the nation’s constitutional and political future. Experts say the vote could have significant implications for the balance of power in Bangladesh and the role of the interim government in steering national policy.

The announcement comes amid growing political tensions, with parties debating the legitimacy, scope, and impact of the referendum. Analysts suggest that the vote could either consolidate public support for reforms or deepen political divides ahead of the national election.