CA calls on voters to back honest and competent candidates

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Monday called on voters to exercise their franchise freely and responsibly to elect honest and capable representatives in the parliamentary elections scheduled for 12 February 2026.

“You are the owners of this country. You will decide who governs it on your behalf for the next five years. Vote for the candidate of your choice. Choose honesty and competence. Cast your vote with care,” he said.

The chief adviser made the remarks in a video message at the inauguration of 10 voting vehicles, dubbed the “Super Caravan,” launched to run a nationwide awareness campaign ahead of the 13th parliamentary election and the referendum on the July National Charter.

Information and Broadcasting Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki, Senior Secretary of the Election Commission Secretariat Akhtar Ahmed, and the Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam formally inaugurated the vehicles by cutting a ribbon at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban on Monday afternoon.

Emphasising the government’s commitment to ensuring an election free of fear and obstruction, Prof Yunus said the administration is determined to create an environment where the people’s will can be expressed freely and without intimidation.

Describing the moment as critical for the nation with both an election and a referendum ahead, he said the Super Caravan—comprising 10 vehicles—has begun its journey with that objective in mind. The caravans will travel to all 64 districts and 300 upazilas, going door to door to disseminate information about the polls and the referendum, raise awareness of voting rights, and promote democratic values.

Addressing citizens, Prof Yunus said voting is not a favour granted by anyone but a constitutional right through which people determine the country’s future course. He stressed that ensuring a free, fair and participatory election is a shared responsibility of both the government and citizens.

He described the Super Caravan not just as a fleet of vehicles but as a messenger of democratic spirit, highlighting the power of a single vote and reminding people that democracy is strengthened through participation, not apathy.

Making a special appeal to youth, women and first-time voters, he urged them to engage actively—by asking questions, learning about the process, and casting their ballots.

“Your choices will shape the future of Bangladesh—the new Bangladesh,” he said.

Prof Yunus also noted that voters will cast an additional vote in the referendum on the July National Charter. He said the charter was drafted through months of discussions with all political parties and expressed confidence that public endorsement would help steer the country safely forward for years to come. He urged voters who support the charter to vote “Yes” in the referendum.

Calling for collective action, he concluded: “Let us make this democratic journey a success together. Let us vote—for ourselves, for the country, for future generations, and for a new world.”