Staff Reporter :
Visiting United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed his full support for Bangladesh’s reform efforts, particularly with regard to the country’s upcoming elections.
During a high-level meeting with Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Professor Muhammad Yunus, at his Tejgaon office in Dhaka, Guterres reiterated the UN’s commitment to ensuring a free, fair, and participatory election process, which Yunus hopes will bring about a “real transformation” in the country.
Yunus briefed Guterres on Bangladesh’s reform initiatives, informing him that around 10 political parties had provided feedback on reports from six reform commissions established by the interim government.
Yunus suggested that elections could take place as early as December if political parties agree to a “short package” of reforms. However, if a “larger package” is agreed upon, elections would be held by June next year.
The Chief Adviser expressed his gratitude for Guterres’ visit, highlighting that it came at a critical time not only for Bangladesh but also for the Rohingya people.
Yunus also sought the UN’s support to ensure the dignified return of the Rohingya refugees to Myanmar’s Rakhine State, alongside securing sufficient humanitarian aid for them in the interim.
Guterres, in turn, expressed strong solidarity with Bangladesh’s reform efforts, telling Yunus, “We are here to support your reforms. Whatever we can do, let us know.”
He recognised the complexity of the reform process but expressed optimism that it would culminate in a transformative political outcome for the country.
Beyond the elections, Guterres also raised concerns about the declining humanitarian aid for the 1.2 million Rohingya refugees living in camps in Cox’s Bazar, calling it one of the most neglected humanitarian crises in the world.
He stressed the international community’s growing neglect of the Rohingya people, stating, “I’ve never seen a population so discriminated against.”
The UN Secretary-General criticised Western nations for prioritising increased defence budgets over humanitarian assistance, labelling global aid cuts as “a crime.”
He also expressed deep gratitude to Bangladesh for hosting the Rohingya refugees, acknowledging the country’s generosity in providing shelter to those displaced by violence in Myanmar.
“Rohingyas are a special case for me,” Guterres added, pledging to make the Rohingya crisis a priority during his tenure and to mobilise international support for the displaced population.
