US: Ahead of the elections in February 2026, the Embassy issues a warning about possible unrest in Bangladesh
US: Following Bangladesh’s declaration that a national referendum and its next parliamentary election would take place on February 12, 2026, the US Embassy in Dhaka has issued a countrywide security warning for US nationals.
The US Embassy warned that as the election date draws nearer, there would likely be more political rallies and protests. The warning was issued on Monday. It issued a warning that even amicable meetings may become violent. US nationals in Bangladesh were advised to be alert, stay away from protests and big gatherings, keep an eye on local media for developments, and be mindful of their surroundings.
The warning follows the official announcement last week by Bangladesh’s Election Commission about the dates of the nation’s upcoming general elections. For the first time in Bangladeshi history, all 300 parliamentary seats will be up for election on the same day as a nationwide referendum.
Being the first national election since the student-led rebellion that overthrew previous Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024, the election in February 2026 will also be politically important. Since then, Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, has served as the head of an interim government.
The timetable release states that on December 29, 2025, candidates will submit their nomination papers. From January 22, 2026, until 48 hours before to the election, candidates may begin campaigning.
The parliamentary election will be followed by a nationwide referendum on the “July Charter.” The charter is considered a crucial component of the political transition that will take place after 2024 and calls for significant changes to state institutions, including steps to improve judicial independence and limit presidential power.
In a nationally televised speech, Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin made the announcement of the election timetable on state radio station Bangladesh Betar and state television station Bangladesh Television. According to him, the Election Commission is getting ready to hold free, fair, and inclusive elections.
The US Embassy reaffirmed its advice to stay away from places where demonstrations or political activities are occurring and recommended American residents in Bangladesh to call the embassy in Dhaka for consular assistance if necessary.