One month enough for election campaigning after Eid-ul-Fitr next year: Badiul Alam

In response to Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus's announcement that the national election will be held in April 2026, Badiul Alam Majumdar, a member of National Consensus Commission, said one month after Eid-ul-Fitr in March next year is sufficient for election campaigning.

Speaking to The Business Standard today (6 June), Badiul, who was also the head of the Election Reform Commission, said, "The proposal to reform the electoral system includes limiting the campaign period for candidates. In line with that recommendation, one month after Eid is enough time for campaigning.

"Political parties usually finalise their candidates about a month before the election and then begin their campaigns. What happens before that is mainly internal party preparation, which can start right now."

He urged political parties to establish internal democracy and begin preparing for a democratic national election.

Addressing the timing of the upcoming national election, the election expert noted that elections have been held in Bangladesh in various months, including June.

"Previously, elections have taken place in February, March, and May as well," he added.

Regarding the possibility of announcing the election schedule during the month of Ramadan, he said this would not be a problem.

"The Election Commission will be able to complete all necessary tasks, including verification of affidavits, within a suitable timeframe," he said.

He further noted that the Election Reform Commission's proposed reforms include lowering the spending limit for candidates, which will reduce the need for extended campaigning.

He also dismissed concerns about the SSC exams coinciding with the national election, stating that such a major democratic event should not be disrupted by other schedules.