Staff Reporter :
The interim government led by Dr. Mohammad Yunus, is moving forward with both election preparations and necessary reforms.
According to Shafiqul Alam, Press Secretary to the Chief Adviser, the government is committed to advancing electoral activities, including the formation of the Election Commission, alongside its reform agenda.
He explained that by working on both tasks simultaneously, the government will be prepared to hold elections swiftly once a consensus on reforms is reached.
Alam made these remarks during a press conference on Saturday night at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka, responding to questions from journalists.
The conference was held to update the media on the ongoing dialogues between the Chief Adviser and various political parties. Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser, Mahfuz Alam, and other senior officials were also present.
During the briefing, Alam elaborated on the six commissions that the government has formed to facilitate state reforms.
These commissions are tasked with engaging political parties and stakeholders and are expected to submit their reports within three months.
Based on these reports, the interim government will continue discussions with political parties and other segments of society. Elections will be scheduled once a political consensus on the reforms is reached.
Addressing questions on accountability and justice, Mahfuz Alam stated that those involved in genocide or fascist activities, whether within the administration or outside, will be brought to justice.
The government is committed to holding individuals accountable based on thorough investigations and legal proceedings, he added.
In response to queries about ongoing dialogues with political parties, Mahfuz Alam highlighted that the interim government has sought political parties’ feedback on the six commissions.
The discussions have also touched on pressing issues such as law and order, particularly concerning the security of the upcoming Durga Puja celebrations.
According to Alam, all political parties have expressed their support for the interim government and recognized it as their representative authority.
One of the key points of discussion during the dialogues has been the road map for the elections.
Mahfuz Alam mentioned that there have been extensive talks on how the proposed reforms from the commissions will be integrated into the election process.
He emphasized that the government and political parties are discussing how both reforms and elections will proceed in parallel.
When asked about rising commodity prices, Mahfuz Alam acknowledged the concern and assured the public that the interim government has been taking steps against price manipulation and extortion.
He expressed optimism that law enforcement agencies are gradually regaining their control, which would create opportunities to break up syndicates and stop extortion. “We hope to address the price hikes in the near future,” he added.
The interim government’s dual approach to elections and reforms reflects its commitment to addressing the country’s political and economic challenges in a systematic and transparent manner.
The ongoing dialogues with political parties and stakeholders are expected to pave the way for both timely elections and meaningful reforms in the near future.