Chief Adviser urges citizens to shape the nation’s future through elections and referendums

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today called on citizens to actively take part in the upcoming national election and referendum, stressing that the vote will shape the identity, structure and development path of a new Bangladesh.

Describing the polls as a historic turning point, he said the outcome of the election and referendum would determine what kind of state the nation aspires to build. “This election and referendum will set the character, framework and direction of progress of the new Bangladesh,” he said.

Prof Yunus made the remarks while addressing the nation this evening on the occasion of Victory Day 2025.

Referring to the July National Charter issued by the interim government to initiate fundamental constitutional reforms, he said the time had now come to seek public approval for its implementation. “The roadmap of our democratic future begins with this vote. Through the referendum, citizens will express their support or opposition to the proposed reforms by voting ‘Yes’ or ‘No’,” he added.

He noted that the Election Commission has announced February 12 next year as the date for holding the general election and referendum simultaneously, adding that all preparations have been completed and the government is extending full cooperation to the EC.

Emphasising the government’s commitment to ensuring a festive, inclusive, peaceful and fair election, the Chief Adviser said extensive measures are being taken, including security arrangements, administrative readiness, technical support and election observation. “We are determined to organise a credible election,” he said.

Prof Yunus reminded citizens that building a new Bangladesh is a shared responsibility, stating that their votes would decide the country’s future. He urged people to view voting not as a routine formality, but as an act of active participation in state-building and the exercise of democratic rights.

“The ownership of the country rests with the people, and your vote is the signature of that ownership,” he said.

Stressing the importance of political leadership in safeguarding the credibility of the polls, he urged leaders to treat one another as competitors rather than enemies and to help create an environment that is fair, acceptable and peaceful. Warning against electoral violence and ballot-stuffing, he said such acts undermine people’s freedom and democracy.

He called on citizens to cast their votes responsibly and to resist any attempt to obstruct the process in a disciplined manner, with the support of law enforcement agencies. “The future of our nation and our children depends on this vote,” he said, urging voters to choose the right candidates.

“Protecting the vote is the same as protecting the country,” Prof Yunus said, describing the ballot as the driving force of national progress and urging people not to let anyone take it away.

On administrative preparations, he said changes have been made in the field administration and police to ensure neutrality, efficiency and professionalism ahead of the election. He clarified that the reshuffles were based on merit and competence, not favoritism.

“Our sole objective is to ensure that every voter can vote freely, safely and without fear,” he said, adding that the government would take further steps if recommended by the Election Commission.

Highlighting the role of expatriate Bangladeshis in the July Uprising and the Liberation War of 1971, Prof Yunus said it was unfortunate that they had long been deprived of voting rights. He noted that, for the first time, millions of expatriates will be able to vote by postal ballot due to initiatives taken by the interim government, adding that this system would continue in the future.