Consensus imperative for festival polls Prof Yunus
Staff Reporter :
Reiterating the interim government’s pledge to hold a festive national election in February, Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus on Sunday stressed that political parties must build consensus to ensure the journey toward a “New Bangladesh” succeeds.
“We have been saying this time and again. The coming election will not just be a vote – it will be a celebration. If we can resolve the remaining issues, it will turn into a national festival, a true rebirth for Bangladesh,” he said, urging parties to work together to settle the last pending matters.
Dr. Yunus noted that the world’s eyes are fixed on Bangladesh and the process it adopts in preparing for the upcoming polls.
Underscoring the importance of the final phase of dialogue, he said, “This chapter is ending, but the last step is the most crucial. If we complete it fairly and transparently, it will set a global standard.”
National Consensus Commission Vice Chair Prof Ali Riaz, Law Adviser Asif Nazrul, BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed, Jamaat leader Hamidur Rahman Azad and National Citizen Party leader Akhter Hossen also spoke at the event, held at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka.
The session was moderated by the Chief Adviser’s Special Assistant Monir Haider.
Prof Yunus said regardless of debates or disagreements, the solution lies in consensus.
“The only answer to the opportunity created by the student-people’s uprising is to start a new journey as a nation – by building a New Bangladesh through unity,” he said.
He admitted that when the National Consensus Commission was first formed, he was unsure of its success. But through patient dialogue and long discussions, the members have set an “unprecedented example.”
“You have done the heavy lifting; now just a little distance remains.
Everything depends on how beautifully you complete this final stretch. The world is watching – you must finish it well,” he urged, stressing that consensus is the only way forward.
Expressing gratitude, Dr. Yunus said, “You have written a memorable chapter in history. Now, the task is to close it perfectly.”
He added that the commission has already created a rare example by making the initiative work, which itself is a major achievement.
Dr. Yunus hoped the election would be peaceful and festive, ushering in a new beginning for the nation.
“This opportunity is priceless. Let us not waste it by getting stuck in small differences,” he warned, stressing that the country must keep moving forward.
He further noted that reforms are necessary to ensure no autocrat can return to power. “Blocking the path of dictatorship requires unity. Disagreements may exist, but the final task must not remain incomplete. My heartfelt appeal: embrace each other when finalising the July Charter,” he said.
According to him, the election process should begin with clear minds and confidence. “We have built the highway. Now we must walk it – the destination is in sight.”
Prof Yunus cautioned that such an opportunity will not come again. “This is the only chance. There is no scope for failure or diversion.”
Earlier on 11 September, the commission held its last round of talks with political parties. Although the July Charter was discussed, a final agreement is yet to be reached.
The commission has said the July Charter is not merely a framework for political reform but also a long-term roadmap to strengthen democracy and governance. Its success, however, depends on full political consensus.