The Bangladesh Army has affirmed its readiness to support the upcoming parliamentary elections scheduled for February 2026, but is still awaiting formal directives from the Election Commission (EC).

Although the government has conveyed its expectations, the military has not yet received official instructions outlining its role in the electoral process.

Colonel Md Shafiqul Islam, Director of Military Operations at the Army Headquarters, provided the update during a press conference held at the Officers’ Mess in Dhaka Cantonment on Monday afternoon. He emphasized that the army stands prepared to carry out its responsibilities in ensuring a neutral and fair election, but only once it receives clear guidance from the EC.

“The army will act strictly in accordance with the Election Commission’s directives,” Colonel Shafiqul said. “We expect to receive those instructions very soon. In the meantime, we are making our internal preparations to ensure we can deploy swiftly and effectively when called upon.”

He iterated the military’s commitment to supporting a peaceful and impartial electoral environment, noting that all operations will be conducted under the legal framework and supervision of the EC.

In response to media queries about the army’s potential involvement in managing misinformation on social media ahead of the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) elections, Colonel Shafiqul dismissed any notion of military engagement in the student polls. “The army has no role whatsoever in the DUCSU elections,” he stated firmly. “We have already made this clear through the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). Despite this, certain vested interests continue to spread false narratives and propaganda. But such attempts will not succeed.”

Addressing allegations that some retired army officers are circulating misleading information online, he said, “People can see through these intentions. Such propaganda lacks credibility, and the public is not fooled by it. As for necessary actions, that lies with the government — and appropriate steps will be taken where required.”

The comments come amid heightened political activity and growing public interest in both national and campus-level elections. While the army remains on standby for the general election, authorities continue to stress that student union polls will be conducted independently, without military involvement.

With the electoral timeline advancing, all eyes are now on the Election Commission to issue formal guidelines outlining the scope and nature of the armed forces’ participation in maintaining law and order during the voting period.