The interim government of Bangladesh has proclaimed two days of national public holiday (11 February and 12 February), just before the 13th National Parliament Election and Referendum. A holiday for industrial workers is also being implemented on 10 February 2026. The purpose of these announcements is to facilitate the participation of voters and staff alike in the upcoming elections.
Holiday Details
On 25 January 2026, a Gazette Notification was published by the Ministry of Public Administration, stating that all Government, Semi-Government, Private Office and Educational Institutions would observe a public holiday on these dates. The first day of this holiday (11 February 2026) is to prepare people and staff for the election, and the second day of this holiday (12 February) will coincide with the time when ballots will be cast (7:30 AM – 4:30 PM). The industrial sector has established an additional public holiday for 10 February to ensure continued productivity and the orderly conduct of business activities.
Here’s the information neatly organised into a clear table 👇
| Date | Type of Holiday | Applicable To | Purpose |
| 10 February 2026 | Additional Public Holiday | Industrial Sector | Declared to ensure continued productivity and the orderly conduct of business activities ahead of the election |
| 11 February 2026 | Public Holiday | Government, Semi-Government, Private Offices & Educational Institutions | Preparation day for people and staff ahead of the election |
| 12 February 2026 | Public Holiday | Government, Semi-Government, Private Offices & Educational Institutions | Election day; ballot casting scheduled from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM |
Voter Impact
A temporary three-day holiday helps encourage participation by removing employees’ work responsibilities. Most license holders and those who provide polling services are likely to be able to conduct their jobs without disruption, which will help guarantee that the referendums related to constitutional issues will be held smoothly. All employers in the private sector will be required to comply with applicable labour legislation during the three days of holidays.
Election Context
The elections will take place a few months after the turmoil caused by the political changes in 2024, and the calendar for the elections was approved by the elections advisory council. Local poll services are gearing up for a significant turnout of voters across the country, and the holiday season will include increased security to preserve the peace.
Business Implications
Many companies in the private sector, especially retail and food service businesses, will be operating on a long weekend, which may lead to changes in employee work schedules. However, employers of essential service industries are expected to offer their services for community safety. It is the responsibility of employers to notify their employees as early as possible if they will be working extra hours on holidays.
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