DHAKA, Jan 12, 2026 (BSS) - The Election Commission (EC) has directed all professional bodies and other organisations across the country to refrain from holding any elections until February 12, the date scheduled for the 13th national parliamentary election and referendum.

The directive was issued through a letter signed on Monday by EC Secretariat Deputy Secretary (Polls Operation-2) Mohammad Monir Hossain.

According to the EC, as the 13th national election and referendum will be held on February 12, all types of elections organised by professional bodies and institutions must be postponed until after that date to ensure the national polls remain free from any undue influence.

The restriction applies to elections of educational institutions, transport owners' and workers' associations, journalists' associations, traders' associations, cooperative societies, trade unions, and other similar organisations.

The EC has instructed all returning officers to take necessary measures to implement the decision.