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protests. Seven days later, the Bangladesh government appointed an administrator to ensure a fair election.

Months later, former CCCI leaders, including Sammilito Byaboshayee Parishad leader SM Nurul Haque, demanded reforms and called for the exclusion of Town Association and Trade Group categories, arguing that their constituent bodies were inactive.

On August 11, 2025, the Election Board announced a schedule with polling set for November 1.

The situation became more complex when, on September 4, 2025, the commerce ministry’s Trade Organisation Wing allowed Town Association and Trade Group participation, despite earlier CCCI and ministry reports (July 15 and August 20) describing them as inactive and non-operational.

Legal challenges followed, with four businessmen approaching the Alternative Dispute Resolution Tribunal of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), while another filed a writ with the High Court, both contesting the process and category inclusion.

On April 22, the FBCCI Tribunal ordered the cancellation of the earlier election schedule and directed that a new one be announced under the Trade Organisation Rules 2025, requiring direct voting for all presidium posts.

However, on May 18, the Election Board issued a notice setting the election for May 23, prompting another writ on May 19 by SM Nurul Haque and another business leader.

The High Court stayed that notice on May 21 for six months, but a Supreme Court chamber judge later stayed the High Court order the same day, allowing the election to proceed.

The commerce ministry also directed that it be held in a free and fair manner.