Chief Adviser emphasizes prioritizing early conduct of polls at BIMSTEC Summit

Chief Adviser Prioritizes Early Elections at BIMSTEC Summit

Bangkok, Thailand – Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus emphasized on Friday that holding national elections at the earliest remains a top priority for his government.

"I have assured our people that once our mandate is fulfilled in conducting elections and implementing the necessary reforms, we will ensure a free, fair, and participatory election," he stated at the 6th BIMSTEC Summit.

Reflecting on the July uprising in Bangladesh, Professor Yunus recalled the sacrifices made by countless men, women, and children during the nine-month-long genocide of 1971. He stressed that their struggle was for an inclusive, just, and free society where every citizen could pursue their dreams.

"Unfortunately, over the past 15 years, the rights and spaces of our people, particularly the youth, have been increasingly restricted. State institutions have deteriorated, and civic rights have been suppressed," he noted.

He further stated that the mass movement successfully ended a brutal authoritarian regime, costing the lives of nearly 2,000 innocent people, including 118 children. "The people of Bangladesh have witnessed a historic rebirth," he added.

Professor Yunus shared that student leaders, who spearheaded the uprising and overthrew the corrupt and autocratic rule of Sheikh Hasina, requested him to lead the country through this crucial transition.

"I accepted the responsibility for the sake of our people," he affirmed.

The chief adviser reiterated his government’s commitment to implementing comprehensive reforms to restore economic stability and sustained growth. "We are dedicated to good governance, combating corruption, and restoring order in every aspect of the economy. These form the core of our planned reforms," he said.

The interim government has established six commissions to recommend reforms in key areas, including the judiciary, electoral system, public administration, police, anti-corruption efforts, and the constitution. These measures aim to ensure public accountability, transparency, and welfare.

He also announced the formation of a seven-member ‘Jatiya Oaikyamot (National Consensus) Commission’, chaired by himself and comprising the heads of the six reform commissions, to review and implement the recommendations. Additionally, four new commissions have been established to focus on media, health, labor, and women’s rights.

"As we rebuild Bangladesh, we remain committed to upholding the constitutional rights of all citizens, including women and ethnic and religious minorities," he assured.

The summit was attended by Thai Prime Minister and Chairperson Paetongtarn Shinawatra, BIMSTEC Secretary General Ambassador Indra Mani Pandey, and other distinguished representatives from BIMSTEC member states.