Nahid Islam, Convenor of the National Citizens’ Party (NCP), stated that a fair and credible election is not possible under the current Election Commission. He made these remarks on Friday night (June 6) during an immediate response at the party’s temporary office in Banglamotor, following the announcement by Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus that the next national election will be held in the first half of April 2026.
“We have consistently said that the primary responsibilities of this government are justice, reform, and election,” said Nahid. “During a meeting of the Consensus Commission, we urged that the election date be announced only after the July Charter is finalized. Today, the Chief Adviser has provided a probable date—perhaps to reassure certain political parties.”
Nahid emphasized the importance of the July Charter, saying it is essential for building public confidence and upholding the spirit of the mass uprising. “The government had sought 30 working days to finalize the charter, and some time still remains. We hope it will be published on schedule.”
He added, “The Chief Adviser has mentioned that the July Charter will be released within the month. If a clear roadmap for reform emerges from that document, it could pave the way for establishing a level playing field. For now, we welcome the announced roadmap.”
“We’ve said it before: if the July Charter, justice, and reforms are ensured, the election could take place any time between December and June,” Nahid stated. “But at this moment, our main demand is that the government uphold its commitment to the July Charter.”
Regarding the Election Commission, Nahid asserted, “Since the likely election period has now been declared, it is imperative that the current Election Commission be restructured. We firmly believe that a free and fair election cannot be conducted under this Commission. We urge the government to begin this process without delay.”
