The Bangladesh Coast Guard has been deployed across its designated operational areas to maintain peace, order and overall security during the 13th National Parliamentary Election and Referendum 2026.
The information was disclosed on Thursday afternoon by Director General of the Bangladesh Coast Guard Rear Admiral Md Ziaul Haque after inspecting the law and order situation at several polling areas in Sandwip, Chattogram. He spoke at a gathering held at the Bashiria Ahmadiya Alhaj Abu Bakar Siddique Fazil Madrasa ground.
Rear Admiral Ziaul Haque said that since its inception, the Bangladesh Coast Guard has been playing a vital role in ensuring security in the country’s vast maritime, coastal and riverine regions. Through continuous operations aimed at protecting lives and property, the force has earned the trust of coastal communities, he added, according to a press release.
As part of this responsibility, the Coast Guard has undertaken strict security measures in coordination with other law enforcement agencies to ensure that the upcoming election and referendum, scheduled for 12 February 2026, are held in a free, fair, peaceful and neutral manner. These efforts aim to allow voters to exercise their franchise without fear or hindrance.
He said that from 18 January to 14 February 2026, a total of 100 platoons comprising approximately 3,500 Coast Guard personnel will be deployed for 28 days at polling centres located in remote and strategically important coastal and riverine areas.
The platoons will operate both on land and waterways, covering 332 polling centres under 69 unions in the electoral areas of Narayanganj, Chandpur, Khulna, Chattogram, Lakshmipur, Noakhali, Cox’s Bazar, Barishal, Bhola and Patuakhali districts. In vulnerable and sensitive areas, special intelligence surveillance, drone monitoring, regular patrols and necessary legal measures will be implemented to ensure a secure voting environment.
Rear Admiral Ziaul Haque also said the interim government has arranged the referendum on the same day to help build an accountable, welfare-oriented and prosperous Bangladesh. The Coast Guard, he added, is actively disseminating information to encourage public participation.
He reaffirmed that the Bangladesh Coast Guard remains fully alert and prepared to safeguard voting rights and prevent any form of violence throughout the election period.