Presidential election within 90 days, EC to announce schedule soon

The Election Commission (EC) is preparing to hold Bangladesh's next presidential election within the constitutionally mandated 90-day timeframe following the vacancy in the office of the President, with the election schedule expected to be announced shortly.

Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Masud said the commission is constitutionally bound under Article 123 to complete the presidential election within 90 days of the office becoming vacant.

He said the vacancy was created following the resignation of former President Mohammed Shahabuddin, and the election will be conducted in full compliance with constitutional provisions.

He added that the entire process will be governed by the Presidential Election Act, 1991, with the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) serving as the returning officer.

EC officials said the 350 members of the Jatiya Sangsad will constitute the electoral college for the presidential election. The commission will prepare and finalize the electoral roll before formally announcing the election schedule.

Abdur Rahmanel Masud said the election procedure is similar to that used for reserved parliamentary seats. If more than one candidate is nominated, voting will take place in the Jatiya Sangsad on the scheduled date. If only one valid candidate is nominated, that candidate will be declared elected unopposed.

The commission remains closed on Saturday due to the weekly holiday. Officials said a final decision on the election schedule could be taken on Sunday or at the next EC meeting.