Home Adviser Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury has said that the upcoming national election is expected to take place in the first half of February next year.
He made the remarks on Tuesday during a meeting with German Ambassador to Bangladesh Dr Rüdiger Lotz at his office in the Ministry of Home Affairs at the Secretariat, said a press release
During the meeting, the two sides discussed a range of issues, including public reaction to the ICT verdict against deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina, preparations for the upcoming national election, prisoner repatriation, cybercrime, the overall law and order situation, and other matters of mutual interest.
Welcoming the German envoy, Jahangir described Germany and Bangladesh as long-standing partners and expressed hope for further strengthening bilateral relations.
In response to questions about the election date and preparation, he reiterated that the schedule is determined by the Election Commission but expressed optimism that the polls would be held on time. He added that law enforcement agencies are fully prepared to ensure a smooth election, regardless of the date.
Addressing the law and order situation following Sheikh Hasina’s verdict, the adviser said the country remains largely calm, with only minor isolated incidents reported.
He warned that any attempt to disrupt public order would be dealt with firmly. Jahangir also said crime rates remain under control and that citizens are now able to express their views freely, which he claimed had not been possible in the previous 15 years under Hasina’s administration.
The meeting was also attended by Additional Secretary (Political) of the Home Ministry Khandaker Md Mahabubur Rahman and Deputy Head of Mission at the German Embassy in Dhaka, Anja Kersten.
