BNP Calls on Dr Yunus to Announce Election Schedule to Prevent Unrest

BNP leader Zainul Abedin Farroque expressed concern that the ongoing delay in holding the next parliamentary elections is deepening instability across the country. Speaking at a protest rally on Friday, he urged interim government chief Professor Muhammad Yunus to announce a clear election schedule immediately to prevent further unrest. Farroque questioned who was responsible for the delay and called on Dr. Yunus, a respected figure, to clarify the situation.

Farroque emphasized that if the government had provided a clear roadmap earlier, many opposition supporters who faced persecution under Sheikh Hasina’s tenure could have engaged constructively in the election process. He warned that BNP would reject any blame if the current instability is caused by the interim government’s inaction. The BNP leader also highlighted media reports suggesting Dr. Yunus might resign and cautioned that forcing such a respected personality to leave in disgrace would be deeply regrettable.

Calling on Professor Yunus to leave a positive legacy—similar to that of Justice Shahabuddin Ahmed—Farroque urged him to ensure free, fair elections with voting during daylight hours and protection of voters’ rights. He also requested the chief adviser to push for the resignation of certain advisory council members to maintain the government’s credibility and stressed that reforms must not create vulnerabilities, such as opening corridors to Myanmar or risking control over Chattogram port.

Farroque concluded by warning against reforms that might empower conspirators aiming to delay elections and undermine the interim government’s stability. He insisted that only by announcing the election schedule soon can Professor Yunus help restore peace and democratic progress in Bangladesh.