Elections, referendum a national commitment: Government

The interim government, led by Prof Muhammad Yunus, has described the forthcoming national election and referendum as a national commitment.

“The upcoming election and referendum are not merely political exercises; they represent a solemn national commitment. This pledge is inseparable from the dream for which Shaheed Sharif Osman Hadi laid down his life,” the government said in a statement.

In a written statement issued by the Chief Adviser’s press wing on Friday, the government said that honouring the sacrifice and memory of Inqilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi required restraint, responsibility, and an unwavering commitment to rejecting hatred.

The interim administration urged citizens to resist all forms of mob violence perpetrated by a small group of fringe elements.

“We strongly and unequivocally condemn all acts of violence, intimidation, arson and destruction of property,” the statement said.

The government noted that the country is at a critical juncture as it undergoes a historic democratic transition, warning that the process must not be derailed by those who thrive on chaos and reject peace.

It further said that attacks on journalists amounted to attacks on truth itself, assuring that those responsible would face full justice.

The government also condemned the lynching of a Hindu man in Mymensingh, saying there was no place for such violence in the new Bangladesh and vowing that the perpetrators would not be spared.

Calling on citizens to honour the memory of martyred Hadi, the government urged people to reject and resist violence, incitement and hatred.

Meanwhile, Prof Yunus spoke by phone on Thursday night with the editors of The Daily Star and Prothom Alo regarding the reported attacks on their offices.

Expressing condolences to Prothom Alo Editor Matiur Rahman and The Daily Star Editor Mahfuz Anam, the chief adviser said, “This unwarranted and reprehensible attack on your organisation and journalists has deeply saddened me. The government stands by you in this difficult time.”