Published : 16 Dec 2024, 11:04 AM Updated : 16 Dec 2024, 11:04 AM
According to the chief advisor, the timing of the election will primarily depend on reaching political consensus and the scope of reforms required before it takes place.
Muhammad Yunus, chief advisor to the interim government, has indicated that Bangladesh's next general election could take place in late 2025 or the first half of 2026, provided there is political consensus on the timeline.
Speaking in a national address on Monday to mark Victory Day, Yunus reiterated his call for the completion of major reforms prior to the elections but highlighted that if a political agreement could be reached, a few reforms could be finalized, a comprehensive voter list could be prepared, and elections could be held by the end of 2025. However, he noted that implementing the recommendations of the Electoral Reforms Commission and other reforms through consensus could extend the timeline by at least six months.
To facilitate this, Yunus announced the establishment of a National Consensus Building Commission alongside the six reform commissions currently operating under the interim government. The new commission will engage political parties and other stakeholders to identify common ground and propose actionable reforms. Yunus, who will chair the commission with Professor Ali Riaz as vice-chairman, hopes its activities will commence in January following the receipt of final reports from the six reform commissions. Yunus emphasized that fostering national consensus is a vital duty of the interim government.
In his Victory Day speech, Yunus began by honoring the sacrifices of martyrs and citizens who fought for Bangladesh’s independence, acknowledging the nation’s shortcomings in fulfilling the aspirations of 1971. Reflecting on recent events, he celebrated the role of citizens and students in the July-August uprising that led to the resignation of Awami League leader Sheikh Hasina and the end of her 15-year rule. Yunus paid tribute to the sacrifices of those who contributed to this mass movement and the democracy it secured.
Yunus emphasized that the unity forged during the uprising remains strong, noting that it reflects the nation’s resolve to build "a new Bangladesh." He spoke of the optimism and determination of the people, highlighting the symbolic importance of this national solidarity.
Addressing questions about the election timeline, Yunus acknowledged the role of reform commissions in shaping the electoral process. He specifically mentioned the Election System Reform Commission and Constitutional Reform Commission as critical in determining the path toward elections. Additionally, the newly established Election Commission has begun preparatory work to facilitate the democratic transition.
The chief advisor placed particular emphasis on updating and verifying the voter list, a task he described as essential yet challenging. He underscored that the previous three elections excluded voters from meaningful participation due to inaccuracies or oversight in the voter registration process. Yunus noted that first-time voters—many of whom will vote for the first time in their lives—must be included to ensure a smooth, democratic voting experience. He also called for the removal of fake voters and expressed a commitment to enabling expatriate Bangladeshis to vote through a trustworthy and efficient electoral system.
Yunus highlighted that reforms and preparations will require time. Nevertheless, he asserted the interim government’s commitment to creating an electoral system that is transparent, fair, and serves as a model for the future.
In closing, Yunus urged citizens to maintain the unity and determination that powered the recent uprising. He called for vigilance, shared aspirations, and collective resolve in advancing the nation's goals. “Stay vigilant. Align your goals with the nation’s aspirations. No force in the world can deter us from achieving our goals,” he concluded.
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