Bangladesh to hold general election, referendum on Feb. 12

Bangladesh's Election Commission has announced that the country's first-ever twin polls - the 13th National Parliamentary Election and a referendum will be held on Feb. 12 next year.

The country's Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin made the announcement in a pre-recorded televised address on Thursday night. The CEC said nominations are to be filed by Dec. 29, which will be scrutinized from Dec. 30 to Jan. 4.

The Parliament of Bangladesh is a unicameral legislature consisting of 350 members. Its composition is divided into two categories: 300 members elected through direct polls and 50 members occupying seats reserved for women.