As Bangladesh prepares for parliamentary elections and a national referendum on February 12, 2026, the US Embassy in Dhaka has issued a security alert warning of potential political violence during the election period and urging American citizens to remain vigilant.
In a post on X on Friday, the Embassy stated: “Bangladesh will hold parliamentary elections and a national referendum simultaneously on February 12, 2026. During the election period, political violence or extremist attacks may occur, potentially targeting rallies, polling stations, and religious sites. U.S. citizens should remain vigilant, avoid demonstrations, and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large gatherings.”
The statement further advised Americans to avoid large crowds and demonstrations, stay aware of their surroundings, monitor local news, maintain vigilance, keep a low profile, carry a charged mobile phone for emergency communications, review personal security plans, and consider alternative travel routes.
Earlier on Thursday, the Bangladesh Interim Government expressed deep concern over a recent violent incident in Sherpur, which resulted in the death of a political activist from the Jamaat-e-Islami party. The Chief Adviser Press Wing described any loss of life due to violence as “unacceptable and deeply regrettable.”
With the national election only two weeks away, the government called on all political parties, including the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami, to exercise responsible leadership and ensure restraint among supporters. The statement emphasized that violence, intimidation, and loss of life have no place in a democratic process.
The Interim Government urged all parties, leaders, and campaigners to help maintain peace, respect the rule of law, and engage voters through peaceful and constructive means, stressing that “the nation’s future depends on calm, discipline, and democratic conduct from all sides.” The government reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a peaceful, free, and fair election.
Ahead of the polls, the Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council issued a statement calling on the Election Commission to create a level playing field, ensuring that religious and ethnic minority voters can access polling centers without obstruction. The Council demanded that religion and communalism not be used in election campaigns, religious sites be prohibited from electioneering, and that religious hate speech, false rumors, or propaganda be treated as punishable offenses.
The Bangladesh Election Commission echoed these concerns, highlighting its duty to protect minority voting rights and ensure a peaceful poll. Senior Assistant Secretary Matiur Rahman said: “Our intelligence agencies have already gathered information regarding potential vulnerabilities in the region. The Election Commission has implemented preventive measures to ensure that no one can disturb the process or harm the voting of any group, including minorities. All agencies are carrying out their duties as per instructions. I can confidently say that no one will be able to interfere with the casting of votes.”
Rahman reaffirmed that the Bangladesh Election Commission is taking all necessary steps to ensure a free and fair election.
