CA to Political Parties: Prevent foreign interference in polls
Staff Reporter :
Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus has called on all political parties to ensure that no external power interferes in the upcoming national election, stressing the importance of full cooperation for free and fair polling.
The CA made the appeal during a meeting with leaders of seven political parties at the State Guest House Jamuna on Tuesday, CA Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam told reporters afterward.
He said the chief adviser described this election as “a truly national election, not merely an interim government poll,” representing the interests of all people and political parties across Bangladesh.
“The purpose of this election is to shape the future of Bangladesh. It is an opportunity for the nation to stand independently and govern on its own. There must be no chance for any foreign influence.
We seek your complete support to make this election successful,” the CA was quoted as saying.
The press secretary added that the CA warned of potential obstacles at every stage and efforts to create confusion or doubts. “We must remain firm and vigilant. Cooperation from everyone is essential,” he said.
Shafiqul also mentioned that the CA reaffirmed the election will take place in the first half of February 2026 and sought the political parties’ suggestions on ensuring its smooth conduct.
Yunus emphasized that the election should be held in a joyful and festive atmosphere. “First-time voters should have a positive experience, and those who have previously faced difficulties while voting should encounter a better process this time,” the press secretary quoted the CA as saying.
After the meeting with CA, Islami Andolan Bangladesh has said that without state reforms and justice for the July atrocities, free and fair elections will remain impossible, and without introducing a proportional representation (PR) system, public opinion cannot be truly reflected in polls.
Party’s Presidium Member Ashraf Ali Akon conveyed this message to Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus during a meeting on Tuesday.
Briefing reporters after the discussion at the State Guest House Jamuna, Akon said, “For the past 53 years, people’s mandate has not been reflected. If elections continue in the same traditional format, the outcome will never represent the will of the public.”
The Islami Andolan leader also raised concerns over law and order, noting that the situation had worsened instead of improving.
On the question of banning the Jatiyo Party, Akon said, “Just as the Awami League has faced consequences, we demand similar action against both the Jatiyo Party and the 14-Party Alliance.”
Meanwhile, Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) Secretary General Redwan Ahmed told reporters that the chief adviser had asked what measures could ensure neutral elections.
The LDP suggested several steps but noted that no concrete administrative arrangements had yet been implemented.
Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh Joint Secretary Azizul Haque Islamabadi said his delegation demanded restoring “absolute trust and faith in Almighty Allah” within the Constitution. Referring to the 2013 crackdown on Hefazat and the 2021 anti-Modi protests, he called for a free, fair, and neutral election and the removal of Awami League loyalists from the administration.
Gonosamhati Andolon Chief Coordinator Zonayed Saki said the chief adviser sought advice on ensuring free, fair, and festive elections.
AB Party Chairman Mujibur Rahman Monju highlighted the need for governmental control, authority, and stability to guarantee credible elections.
Gono Odhikar Parishad General Secretary Rashed Khan demanded suspension of the Jatiyo Party and 14-Party Alliance’s registration and activities, similar to restrictions placed on the Awami League.
Later, a separate meeting was held with Gono Odhikar Parishad regarding the attack on its President Nurul Haque Nur. His wife, Maria Akter Muna, said the Chief Adviser inquired about Nur’s health and promised both legal and medical support, including overseas treatment if required.
That afternoon, leaders of seven political parties met Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna. The parties present were: AB Party, Nagorik Oikya, Gonosamhati Andolon, Gono Odhikar Parishad, Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), Islami Andolan Bangladesh, and Jatiyo Gonofront. Representatives of Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh also joined the discussion.