The government is committed to holding elections on schedule, the CA informs the Crisis Group

The Interim Government remains resolute in holding elections as scheduled, rejecting any calls for postponement, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus stated today.

During a meeting with an International Crisis Group delegation led by Dr. Comfort Ero, Prof. Yunus affirmed that his government has outlined two potential election timelines. He assured the group that the dates would remain unchanged.

He explained that if political parties request only a limited set of reforms before the elections, the vote will take place in December. However, if broader reforms are sought, elections will be scheduled for June next year.

“There is no reason to alter the election dates,” he emphasized, stressing the government’s commitment to conducting free and fair elections.

Addressing concerns about the Awami League, the Chief Adviser clarified that the Interim Government has no intention of banning the party. However, individuals within its leadership accused of crimes, including murder and crimes against humanity, will face trial in Bangladesh’s courts.

He further stated that the government has not ruled out referring Awami League leaders to the International Criminal Court in The Hague, following a UN fact-finding mission that identified potential crimes during the July uprising.

“That option remains open,” Prof. Yunus remarked.

He also disclosed that the Consensus Building Commission began discussions with political parties on Thursday, with plans to finalize and sign the July Charter, which will guide the government’s policies.

International Crisis Group officials commended the recent arrest of Rohingya insurgent leader Ataullah, viewing it as evidence of the Interim Government’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the refugee camps. They also underscored the importance of increased engagement with the Arakan Army, which holds significant control over Myanmar’s Rakhine State.

Prof. Yunus highlighted Dhaka’s efforts to mobilize aid for Rohingya refugees and expressed hope that the upcoming special UN conference on the Rohingya crisis would draw global attention to the issue.

Dr. Comfort Ero conveyed her organization’s support for Bangladesh in combating misinformation aimed at the country and its Interim Government.

In conclusion, the Chief Adviser reiterated Bangladesh’s commitment to strong relations with India, though he expressed concern over the spread of misinformation about Bangladesh, much of which, he noted, originates from Indian media.