Staff Reporter :
Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Friday said that holding free, fair, and participatory national elections at the earliest is the top priority of his interim government.
Speaking at the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, Yunus emphasized, “I have assured our people that, once our mandate is fulfilled in the conduct of elections and required reforms are implemented, we shall hold national polls without delay.”
Highlighting Bangladesh’s July uprising, Yunus recalled the sacrifices made by ordinary citizens, especially the youth.
Describing the ousted government of Sheikh Hasina as “a brutal authoritarian regime,” Yunus said nearly 2,000 lives were lost in the movement, including 118 children.
“Our people aspired for an inclusive, just, and free society,” he said, adding that under the previous regime, rights were suppressed and institutions eroded.
Yunus stated that student leaders of the uprising requested him to lead the nation during this transitional period, and he accepted the role “for the sake of our people.”
The Chief Adviser outlined the government’s reform agenda, noting the formation of six key commissions tasked with overhauling the judiciary, electoral system, public administration, police, anti-corruption mechanisms, and the constitution.
“These commissions have submitted their recommendations, now under active review,” Yunus said, announcing the formation of a seven-member ‘Jatiya Oaikyamot (Consensus) Commission’ to finalize and adopt the proposals.
Additionally, four new commissions have been set up to advise on media, health, labor, and women’s rights.
“We are committed to restoring economic stability, good governance, and fighting corruption,” Yunus said.
“Every citizen’s constitutional rights, including those of women and minorities, will be protected,” he added.
The summit was attended by Thai Prime Minister and Summit Chairperson Paetongtarn Shinawatra, BIMSTEC Secretary General Indra Mani Pandey, and heads of delegations from all member states.
