Significant reforms needed before holding elections ahead of Ramadan: Yunus

If preparations proceed smoothly, elections could be held in the week before Ramadan in 2026, said Chief Advisor Professer Muhammad Yunus after meeting BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman in London.

During the meeting on June 13 at the Dorchester Hotel, the two leaders discussed the election timeline and the necessary reforms. Yunus emphasized that adequate progress in reforms and justice must be achieved before any elections can be held.

“Tarique Rahman proposed holding elections before Ramadan next year, a suggestion supported by BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia,” the joint statement released after the meeting said.

Yunus noted that elections are slated for the first half of April 2026 but added that if preparations are complete, elections could be advanced to the week before Ramadan. He stressed that this is contingent on sufficient progress in reforms and justice.

Tarique Rahman welcomed Yunus’ position and thanked him on behalf of BNP, while Yunus expressed gratitude for the productive dialogue.