The Chief Advisor told the BBC that the Awami League will determine whether or not to participate in the elections

Professor Muhammad Yunus, the chief advisor to the interim government, stated that the decision on whether the Awami League will participate in the upcoming elections rests with the party itself. However, he emphasized that the Election Commission will determine which parties are eligible to contest.

He made these remarks during an interview with the British media outlet BBC, conducted at his official residence in Dhaka. The interview was led by BBC South Asia correspondent Samira Hussain and was published in English on the BBC website today, Thursday.

During the interview, the chief advisor expressed his surprise at being asked to lead the interim government following the removal of longtime Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina last year.

"I had no idea that I would be leading the government. I have never governed before, yet I have to fulfill my responsibilities," Yunus said.

The Nobel Peace Prize-winning economist explained that once the initial situation stabilized, his government focused on restoring law and order and reviving the economy, which he identified as key priorities. He hopes to hold elections by the end of the year. However, it remains uncertain whether Sheikh Hasina and her party, who are currently in exile in India, will participate. A warrant has been issued against her for alleged crimes against humanity.

"They (Awami League) have to decide whether they want to participate or not. I cannot make this decision for them," Yunus stated. He reiterated that the Election Commission is responsible for determining election participation.

Emphasizing the challenges his government faces, Yunus said, "Peace, stability, and the economy are the most crucial concerns. The economy is in ruins."

"It's as if a devastating tornado has swept through for 16 years, and now we are trying to rebuild," he remarked.

Sheikh Hasina, who took office as prime minister in 2009, ruled Bangladesh under a strict regime. Her government has been accused of suppressing dissent, committing human rights violations, and imprisoning political opponents. She was removed from power in August following a student-led mass movement. In response to the protesters’ demands, Yunus returned to Bangladesh to lead the interim government.

He stated that elections would take place between December 2025 and March 2026, depending on how quickly institutional reforms are implemented. "If reforms proceed as planned, elections can be held in December. However, if they take longer, the process may extend by a few months," he explained.

Reflecting on the violent protests that rocked Bangladesh last summer, Yunus said, "We emerged from complete chaos—people were being shot and killed."

Despite seven months under the interim government, many in Dhaka believe that law and order have yet to be fully restored.

"Improvement is relative," Yunus commented. "Compared to the same period last year, the situation is better."

However, he acknowledged that current conditions remain largely unchanged from previous times. He attributed Bangladesh's ongoing crisis to the policies of the previous government.