Jamaat-e-Islami, the largest Islamic political party in Bangladesh, has called for major electoral reforms ahead of the national elections, expected in February next year. The party organized a national rally in Dhaka’s Suhrawardy Udyan on Saturday, where it presented a detailed list of demands.
Key Demands Put Forward
The party urged the government to ensure a level playing field for all political parties. It demanded free, fair, peaceful, and impartial elections. Jamaat also called for national elections to be conducted under a proportional representation (PR) system.
In addition, the party insisted on the prosecution of genocide cases allegedly committed by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Other demands included implementing the July Charter and Declaration, rehabilitating families affected by the July Uprising, and giving over 10 million expatriate Bangladeshis the right to vote.
The rally was led by Jamaat Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, who addressed the crowd and emphasized the importance of democratic reforms.
Government Steps Up Election Preparations
Earlier this month, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus directed law enforcement to prepare for the 2026 elections. As part of the plan, 800,000 personnel will undergo extra training.
Authorities aim to place around 16,000 vulnerable polling booths under CCTV surveillance. Additionally, police officers stationed at these booths may wear body cameras. This time, the security deployment will last for seven days—two more than usual—to prevent violence and maintain law and order before and after the polls.
India Backs Inclusive Elections
India has also stressed the importance of free and inclusive elections in Bangladesh. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “As a democracy, we would welcome holding of elections that is inclusive and includes everybody in its fold.” These developments follow a student-led uprising last year that ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. In June, Professor Yunus hinted that national elections might take place in February 2026. A recent agreement between the Chief Executive and a major opposition party further signaled the possibility of early elections.
