In an exclusive interview with the BBC, Dr. Muhammad Yunus, the chief advisor of Bangladesh's interim government, stated that the decision on whether the Awami League will participate in the upcoming national elections rests solely with the party itself. Speaking from his official residence in Dhaka, Dr. Yunus emphasized that the Election Commission holds the authority to determine which parties are eligible to contest.

When asked about the Awami League's potential participation, Dr. Yunus clarified, "It is their decision to make, not mine. Whether they want to participate or not is entirely up to them. The Election Commission decides who can take part in the elections."

The interview, conducted by BBC South Asia correspondent Samira Hussain, was published on the BBC's website on Thursday, March 6. Dr. Yunus also addressed concerns about the country's law and order situation, which remains unstable seven months after the interim government assumed power. He described the concept of stability as relative, noting that compared to the same period last year, the situation appears to have improved.

Dr. Yunus attributed the current instability to the legacy of the previous government, stating, "I do not support these ongoing issues, but we must acknowledge that we are not an ideal country or city created overnight. This is a continuity we have inherited, a reality that has persisted for many years."

Regarding the timeline for the next national elections, Dr. Yunus indicated that they are likely to be held between December 2025 and March 2026, depending on how quickly necessary reforms can be implemented. He stressed the importance of ensuring free and fair elections, adding, "If we can expedite the reforms, we may hold the elections by December. If more time is needed, it could take a few additional months."

Dr. Yunus's remarks come amid ongoing political tensions and debates over the future of democracy in Bangladesh, with the interim government working to create conditions conducive to a credible electoral process.