Dhaka, Feb. 10 -- Campaigning in Bangladesh's 13th parliamentary election and referendum has officially come to a close and a blanket of security measures has descended across the country.

Candidates contesting parliamentary seats could campaign until 7:30am on Tuesday. Any campaigning after the deadline is a violation of the electoral code of conduct.

The Election Commission (EC) is wrapping up preparations to hold a referendum alongside a general election for the first time. Ballot papers and other election materials set to head to centres on Wednesday.

Polls will be held for 299 of 300 seats in the national parliament on Thursday. Voting in one seat has been suspended due to the death of a candidate.

A total of 51 parties, includin...