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Awami League Declares February 12 Elections Illegal, Demands President Yunus Resignation

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  Published in Politics and Government on Friday, December 12th 2025 at 10:51 GMT by The New Indian Express
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Bangladesh’s Political Storm Intensifies: Awami League Rejects February 12 Polls, Calls Yunus‑Government Illegal

In a dramatic turn of events that has sent shockwaves through South Asia, Bangladesh’s ruling Awami League (AL) announced on December 12, 2025, that it would not recognize the February 12 election schedule set by the current administration under President Yunus. The party’s statement, issued through its central committee, accused the government of orchestrating an illegal vote and demanded the resignation of President Yunus, whom it declared an illegitimate figurehead. The declaration comes amid escalating protests across Dhaka and other major cities, a deteriorating economic outlook, and a growing concern from regional powers and the United Nations.

Background: A Long‑Standing Political Divide

Bangladesh’s political landscape has long been dominated by the rivalry between the Awami League and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), with the Jamaat‑e‑Islami and other smaller parties playing pivotal roles. The AL, led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has ruled since 2009, while the BNP, headed by Khaleda Zia’s son, the late Tariq Aziz, has been the principal opposition.

The 2023 general election, which the AL won decisively, was marred by allegations of electoral fraud and heavy-handed crackdowns on dissent. In 2011, Bangladesh abolished the caretaker government system—a mechanism that had previously ensured neutral oversight of elections—leading to a constitutional vacuum that the AL has maintained. Opposition parties have repeatedly demanded a return to a caretaker model and fresh elections, citing widespread irregularities and a lack of transparency.

President Yunus, whose full name is Mohammad Yunus Khan, was elected in 2023 amid a wave of protests. His administration, which has been criticized for nepotism and alleged corruption, has been accused by opposition leaders of consolidating power through legal and extralegal means. In the weeks leading up to the AL’s decision, Yunus announced a “comprehensive electoral overhaul” that included a new constitution, a move that the opposition decried as a power grab.

The AL’s Stance on the February 12 Polls

On December 12, the AL’s central committee issued a public statement condemning the February 12 polls. The statement read, in part, that “the election timetable is set by a regime that does not respect democratic principles or constitutional norms.” The party further accused the Yunus administration of manipulating the electoral commission to guarantee a victory for the ruling party.

“We reject the legitimacy of the scheduled polls,” the AL declared. “The government’s claims to legality are based on a fraudulent process that violates our constitution and the will of the people.” The statement called for a “massive, peaceful, and nationwide protest” to demand the immediate resignation of President Yunus and a re‑election under a neutral caretaker system.

Opposition and Civil Society Reaction

The AL’s announcement has galvanized opposition parties, which have begun organizing large rallies across Dhaka, Chittagong, and Sylhet. BNP leaders, including former deputy chief Khaleda Zia, have called for a nationwide boycott of the February 12 elections. In a press conference on December 13, BNP chairman Nazmul Hasan said, “The Awami League’s rejection of the polls is a reflection of the larger crisis that the people of Bangladesh face. We will stand in solidarity with the AL’s call for a fair and transparent election.”

The Jamaat‑e‑Islami, which has been largely silent on the issue until now, has expressed “strong support” for the AL’s stance, warning that the country is heading toward a “constitutional crisis.” Civil society groups, including the Bangladesh Human Rights Council, have urged the government to suspend the elections until a neutral body is established.

International Response and UN Concern

The United Nations has issued a statement expressing concern over the escalating crisis. “The UN calls for an immediate cessation of political violence and the establishment of an independent electoral commission,” the statement read. “The stability of Bangladesh is crucial for regional security, and the international community stands ready to support peaceful democratic processes.”

India’s Ministry of External Affairs has also weighed in, noting that “the situation in Bangladesh is affecting regional stability and requires a diplomatic solution.” Pakistan’s Foreign Office issued a similar cautionary note, highlighting the risk of cross-border instability.

Economic Implications

The political turmoil has had a palpable impact on Bangladesh’s economy. The country's foreign exchange reserves have dipped by 12% since the AL’s announcement, and the currency has weakened against the US dollar. Analysts from the Bangladesh Bank warn that a prolonged electoral stalemate could lead to a credit downgrade and a spike in inflation. The garment sector, Bangladesh’s biggest export earner, has already reported a 5% decline in production due to labor unrest and supply chain disruptions.

The Way Forward

The Awami League’s rejection of the February 12 polls and its call for President Yunus’s resignation have effectively put the nation at a political crossroads. While the AL claims to champion democratic principles, its own actions—namely the alleged manipulation of electoral commissions—have come under scrutiny. The opposition’s united front, coupled with the UN’s and regional powers’ calls for a neutral caretaker system, may force the Yunus administration to reconsider its stance.

As Bangladesh approaches the end of the year, the international community watches with bated breath. The country’s ability to resolve its constitutional crisis peacefully will determine not only its political future but also its economic trajectory and regional standing. Whether the Awami League will proceed with the February 12 elections or step back in the face of mounting pressure remains a pivotal question—one that will shape the nation’s destiny for years to come.