Photo courtesy of Anadolu
Bangladesh’s Election Commission has scheduled the country’s next presidential election for Aug. 20 following the resignation of President Mohammed Shahabuddin last month.
Election Commission Secretariat Senior Secretary Akhter Ahmed announced the timetable on Thursday, saying Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin would oversee the electoral process.
Candidates seeking the presidency have until Aug. 13 to submit their nomination papers, while election officials will review the filings on Aug. 16.
If only one candidate qualifies, the winner could be proclaimed on Aug. 16 without the need for a vote.
A parliamentary election will be held on Aug. 20 if more than one candidate enters the race.
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party, which holds the majority in parliament, is widely expected to secure the presidency through its nominee.
Shahabuddin stepped down on July 24, citing health concerns before completing his five-year term, which was scheduled to end in 2028. His resignation came after opposition groups renewed calls for him to leave office.
Parliament Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed has been serving as acting president while the country prepares to elect Shahabuddin’s successor.
