Chief Adviser proposes setting the minimum voting age at 17

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus suggested today that the minimum voting age should be set at 17 years. "To allow young people to voice their opinions on their future, I believe the voting age should be fixed at 17," he stated in a video message shared during an election dialogue. The event was organized by the Forum for Bangladesh Studies (FBS) at the Krishibid Institution Bangladesh.

In his message, Prof. Yunus noted that different countries have varying age requirements for voting. He expressed hope that the Election Reform Commission would recommend such an age. "I may or may not agree with that age, but I personally support allowing young people to vote earlier. The younger they are, the more interested they are in change—this is my argument. Their youth gives them strength," said the Chief Adviser.

He emphasized that the youth's strong connection to information technology contributes to their empowerment. With a large number of young people in the country, he said they are eager to shape the nation's future.

"I am not sure what the Election Reform Commission will recommend, but if the majority of the people support the recommended age, I will accept it in the spirit of reaching a consensus," he added.

Prof. Yunus mentioned that the government has set up 15 reform commissions, which are expected to submit their reports in January. "These commissions will present many recommendations. We are now at a point where we want to swiftly accomplish reform through consensus," he explained.

He assured that the interim government aims to create the necessary conditions for holding elections. "It is the responsibility of every citizen, political party, and social, economic, business, and religious community to participate joyfully in the reform process," Prof. Yunus said.

He clarified that reform and election preparations would proceed simultaneously, with the Election Commission responsible for organizing the elections. "Citizens do not need to focus on this process until the election schedule is announced, but they should actively participate in the reform efforts," he urged.

Prof. Yunus stressed that those who are eligible voters should engage in the reform process, as should those who will become voters in the future.

He outlined that the role of each reform commission is to identify key alternatives and recommend one to the nation. "The commissions are tasked with preparing recommendations based on input from various parties on how reforms will shape the future, making it easier for citizens to form their opinions," he said. However, he clarified that the recommendations are not mandatory for everyone, which is why the National Consensus Building Commission was established.

Paying tribute to the fighters in the long struggle against fascism, he said, "I especially honor the students who were martyred in the July mass uprising. Our debt to those who were injured, who lost their eyesight, or limbs can never be repaid. The nation will always remember their inspiration and contribution to the creation of a new Bangladesh."