Political crisis over? Parties, experts, and business leaders weigh in on Bangladesh’s upcoming election, referendum
The business community has described the chief adviser's statement as 'encouraging' in easing political tensions among political parties
The interim government's announcement to hold the national election and a referendum on the July Charter simultaneously on the same day in February 2026 has prompted mixed reactions from political parties and the business community.
BNP accused Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus of violating the charter he had signed, while Jamaat said the move fell short of public expectations.
A political scientist questioned the clarity of the 180-working-day implementation deadline, while the business community welcomed the announcement as a step toward easing political tensions, even amid fresh concerns over recent incidents of violence.
Here's what political parties, experts, and business leaders say:
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CA Yunus violated the July Charter he signed himself: Salahuddin
In his immediate reaction to the chief adviser's national address, BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed has accused Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus of violating the July National Charter that he himself had signed earlier.
"The chief adviser has breached the charter that he signed on 17 October at the South Plaza of the National Parliament. By his speech today, he has clearly violated that document," said the BNP leader.
He made the remarks at his residence following the chief adviser's decision to hold the 13th national election and a referendum simultaneously on the same day.
Salahuddin explained that there are significant inconsistencies and new proposals in the July National Charter (Reform of Constitution) Implementation Order, 2025, compared to the signed charter.
"Many new points have been added, while several consensus-based clauses from the charter are missing. So, the very basis of the referendum has become questionable," he said.
People's expectations not met by decision to hold polls, referendum same day: Jamaat's Porwar
In his immediate reaction, Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General Mia Golam Porwar said the decision to hold the next national election and the referendum on proposals from the July National Charter on the same day has failed to meet public expectations.
"By announcing that the polls and referendum will be held on the same day, the government has plunged the country into further crisis," Porwar said at a press conference held at the party's central office in the capital.
The Jamaat leader said, "In every national election in Bangladesh's history, voting in some centres has been suspended or marred by violence. If a referendum is held on the same day, the closure of any polling centre would affect both the election and the referendum."
12-party alliance welcomes CA's address on polls, referendum
The 12-party alliance has welcomed Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus' address to the nation, describing his announcement regarding a referendum on election day as a "timely and realistic" move.
In a statement today issued by Syed Ehsanul Huda, chairman of Bangladesh Jatiya Dal and coordinator of the 12-party alliance, leaders of the alliance said that the chief adviser's declaration to hold a national referendum alongside the parliamentary elections has been well received by the general public.
They said the announcement has helped dispel uncertainty surrounding both the referendum and the national polls.
'July Charter order a positive step, but 180-day deadline lacks clarity'
Sabbir Ahmed, professor of political science department at Dhaka University, told The Business Standard that while the presidential order mandates implementation of the July National Charter within 180 working days, it does not clarify what happens if the deadline is missed.
"If it's not implemented within the stipulated timeframe, the chances of execution will diminish," he said, adding that a delay would reduce the binding obligation on the then government, weakening the legal foundation.
Referring to the order as being issued in the name of the people's sovereign will, Professor Sabbir explained that under Article 152 of the constitution, the president can issue an ordinance or order when parliament is dissolved or not in session.
"Since the interim cabinet has approved it, the order now carries legal force," he said, noting that this follows the same constitutional practice used by former presidents and chief advisers.
On the proposal for a bicameral legislature, he said it could be a new experience for Bangladesh politics.
"If there is trust and understanding among political parties, this system could have a positive impact. But in cases of mistrust or intense rivalry, the lawmaking process may fall into a deadlock, as we often see in the United States," he added.
Describing the order as a positive step, Professor Sabbir said, "After a long time, the interim government seems to have taken the right direction. With the national election approaching, putting an end to speculation was crucial. This initiative is likely to restore political stability."
Business community hails CA's speech, calls for timely election
The country's business community has described Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus' statement as "encouraging" in easing political tensions among political parties. The business leaders also expressed hope that the upcoming national election will be held on time amid fresh concern over recent incidents of arson and attacks on vehicles.
Taskeen Ahmed, president of the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI), told The Business Standard, "The chief adviser's remarks are encouraging. Political parties must reach a consensus to ensure elections are held on time; otherwise, it will pose a serious threat to the economy."
He added, "Businesses may survive this year, but without improvements, 2026 could be disastrous. Once the election is held, investment and commercial activities, which are currently in decline, are expected to pick up."
Referring to recent attacks, he said, "These incidents have created new concern. Foreign businesses are hesitant to visit Bangladesh and say they will come only after the election."
Mohammad Hatem, president of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA), declined to comment directly on the chief adviser's statement.
However, he said, "If political parties can reach a mutual understanding, it will have a positive impact on business."
He also emphasised the need for an elected government soon, adding, "In the current state of uncertainty, buyers are reluctant to place orders or visit Bangladesh. The sooner an elected government takes office, the better it will be for the business sector."
