BNP welcomes February 2026 election announcement, notes some discontent: Mirza Fakhrul

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir expressed support for the announcement of elections scheduled for February 2026, while acknowledging disappointment among some groups. 

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday at the BNP chairperson’s office in Gulshan in Dhaka, he said, “We welcome the decision to hold elections in February 2026. This historic announcement will help resolve Bangladesh’s political deadlock and facilitate a transition to democracy. However, some are disappointed with the timing, and they may remain so indefinitely.” 

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed was also present.

Addressing the dissatisfaction of certain political parties, Mirza Fakhrul said, “Their reactions have been spontaneous, not formal. We hope they will adopt a positive stance to support the democratic transition.”

When asked about the feasibility of fair elections given the current law and order situation, he responded confidently, “It is entirely possible. In 1991, elections were held within three months of a student uprising. It’s even more feasible now because the people strongly desire this election and will act as the primary guardians of law and order.”

Mirza Fakhrul highlighted the struggles of the past 16 years, stating, “The people of Bangladesh have fought against a fascist Hasina government that systematically stripped away voting rights, turned three elections into a mockery, and destroyed democracy. They have sacrificed lives, faced injuries, and endured disappearances in this battle.”