Election Timing Hinges on Pace of Reforms, Says Interim Government Chief Advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus

Interim Chief Advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus has stated that the timing of Bangladesh’s national parliamentary election depends heavily on the pace of necessary reforms. Following the ousting of the previous authoritarian government, comprehensive reforms are essential across the election system and other critical state mechanisms. Dr. Yunus emphasized the interim government’s intent to facilitate a swift election process.

In an interview with AFP during the COP29 summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, Dr. Yunus elaborated on the government’s commitment to preparing the nation for elections. “We promised to prepare the country for voting upon taking charge. Elections will be announced as soon as our preparations are complete,” he assured.

Reiterating the interim government’s dedication to a timely election, Dr. Yunus called for unity across the country in the reform efforts, highlighting the urgency of finalizing governance structures, parliamentary frameworks, and election codes. “The shorter the duration of the interim government, the better,” he remarked. “As an interim government, our tenure should be as brief as possible. We aim to facilitate elections swiftly.”

The Awami League government was ousted on August 5 amid widespread protests led by students and the general public. An interim government, led by Nobel laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus, was subsequently formed on August 8 and has since focused on various reform initiatives. Numerous political groups, including the BNP, have advocated for rapid reforms and early elections.

Previously, General Waqar-uz-Zaman, the Chief of Army Staff, suggested to Reuters that elections could be feasible within 18 months, provided that key reforms were completed. He added that the interim government has full support from the military to expedite the process as necessary.

In a separate meeting with International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva at the United Nations Headquarters, Dr. Yunus confirmed that elections would be conducted once ongoing reforms and the creation of a comprehensive voter list were completed.