Dhaka, Jan 19 (V7N) — The Election Commission (EC) on Tuesday released the second roadmap outlining key preparations for the upcoming 13th National Parliament elections, scheduled to be held on February 12.

According to the roadmap, the gazette containing the list of all polling stations will be published on January 22. The EC will hold a special coordination meeting with law enforcement agencies on January 28. Allocation of funds for law enforcement agencies and the appointment of election officers as observers will take place on February 1, while ballot papers and other election materials will be dispatched to the field on February 2 and 3.

The roadmap also includes specific instructions not to establish law enforcement camps at polling stations, a move aimed at ensuring a conducive and non-intimidating voting environment.

The election preparations are taking place against the backdrop of major political changes in the country. The Awami League government was ousted following the 2024 student uprising, leading to the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from power. Subsequently, on August 8, 2024, an interim government led by Dr. Muhammad Yunus assumed office, pledging to hold a national election within one year.

In line with that commitment, the Election Commission announced the election schedule, fixing February 12 as the date for the 13th National Parliament elections.

Meanwhile, tensions remain around the Election Commission as leaders and activists of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal continued their protest by surrounding the EC building on Tuesday, alleging bias in the commission’s activities. The organization has been staging a sit-in program since 11 am.

A five-member delegation of Chhatra Dal met with the Election Commissioners at the EC building on Monday. However, the Chhatra Dal president stated that the siege of the Election Commission office would continue until their demands are fulfilled.

END/SMA/AJ