Multi-Party Peace Rallies Held in Mymensingh as Bangladesh Prepares for February 12 Election

Leaders Advocate for Peaceful Electoral Competition in Mymensingh

Senior leaders from several prominent political parties in Bangladesh, including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), National Citizen Party (NCP), and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, have jointly taken to the streets of Mymensingh. Their collective effort is part of a multi-party peace campaign aimed at fostering a peaceful and responsible electoral environment for the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election, set for February 12, 2026.

The rallies, which also saw participation from Gono Odhikar Parishad, Gonosanghati Andolon, and Gonoforum, deliver a unified message to voters: that the electoral competition will be restrained and responsible. This initiative is viewed as a timely measure to reassure the electorate amidst prevailing concerns surrounding electoral politics in the nation.

Organizers Emphasize Harmony and Dialogue

The four-day peace and harmony campaign in Mymensingh has been collaboratively organized by the Multi-Party Advocacy Forum (MAF) – Mymensingh, Harmony Team – Mymensingh, and Democracy International. MAF Mymensingh has been actively engaged in continuous dialogue with various political parties since October, aiming to bring them together through a series of joint discussions and place citizens' expectations for a peaceful election before their senior leaders.

Political Landscape Ahead of the 13th Parliamentary Election

The upcoming 13th national parliamentary election marks a significant political milestone for Bangladesh. It is being conducted under an interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, which assumed power in August 2024 following the ouster of the previous administration. Notably, the Awami League, the winner of the previous four elections, is currently suspended and not participating in this election.

The BNP, NCP, and Jamaat-e-Islami are key players in the electoral race. Campaigning for the election officially commenced on January 22, 2026. The Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, whose electoral ban was lifted in June 2025, has formed an electoral alliance with the NCP, a new party established by student leaders of the anti-Hasina movement. These parties are part of a broader 10-party electoral alliance.

Election Details and Voter Participation

The 13th national parliamentary election, alongside a constitutional referendum on the July Charter, is scheduled for February 12, 2026. Over 127.6 million citizens are eligible to cast their votes, including more than 300,000 registered expatriates who will utilize postal ballots. A total of 1,981 candidates are contesting for the 300 seats in the Jatiya Sangsad.