U.S. Embassy Issues Security Alert as Bangladesh Prepares for Historic Vote

The U.S. Embassy in Dhaka warns American citizens of potential unrest in Bangladesh as the nation gears up for its first simultaneous parliamentary election and national referendum on February 12, 2026. Citizens are urged to stay vigilant and avoid large gatherings ahead of this politically significant period.

The United States Embassy in Dhaka has issued a security alert for its citizens nationwide, following Bangladesh's announcement to hold its next parliamentary election and a national referendum concurrently on February 12, 2026. The advisory, released Monday, anticipates an increase in political rallies and demonstrations as the election date nears, warning that even peaceful gatherings might turn violent. U.S. citizens in Bangladesh are urged to exercise vigilance, avoid demonstrations, follow local media for updates, and remain aware of their surroundings.

The alert follows Bangladesh's Election Commission's formal announcement of the schedule for the upcoming national polls. All 300 parliamentary seats will be contested on the same day as the national referendum, marking Bangladesh's first-ever simultaneous twin polls. This election holds additional significance as the first national vote following the student-led uprising that removed former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024. Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus leads the interim government overseeing this transition.

Candidates are slated to file nomination papers by December 29, 2025, with campaigning allowed from January 22, 2026, until 48 hours before voting begins. Alongside the parliamentary election, the referendum will address the proposed 'July Charter,' which aims to significantly reform state institutions by curbing executive power and enhancing judicial independence. These reforms are pivotal in the country's post-2024 political landscape. Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin, in a televised address, emphasized the Election Commission's commitment to ensuring free, fair, and inclusive polls. The embassy advises American citizens in Bangladesh to contact the Dhaka embassy for consular support if necessary and avoid protest zones.

(With inputs from agencies.)