Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser of Bangladesh’s interim government.
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Bangladesh’s national elections could be held between late 2025 and early 2026, depending on the extent of reforms implemented. If minimal reforms are undertaken to ensure an accurate voter list, elections could be possible by late 2025. However, if comprehensive reforms are implemented based on the Electoral Reforms Commission recommendations and national consensus, it may require an additional six months,
The country’s interim leader Muhammad Yunus made the announcement during his address to the nation on December 16, 2024, marking the first Victory Day following the July-August uprising that ended the 16-year regime of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Dr. Yunus said, “I have repeatedly urged for the completion of major reforms before holding the elections. However, if political consensus requires us to conduct elections based on only a few key reforms and ensuring a flawless voter list, then elections could take place by late 2025. On the other hand, if we include additional reforms recommended by the Electoral Reforms Commission and supported by national consensus, it may require an additional six months. In summary, elections are likely to occur between late 2025 and the first half of 2026.”
Dr. Yunus also welcomed East Timor’s President, Nobel Peace Prize laureate José Ramos-Horta, who reached Dhaka to join the Victory Day celebrations. Dr. Yunus said Mr. Ramos-Horta led his country’s struggle for independence, inspired by Bangladesh’s Liberation War. East Timor achieved independence in 2002.
Dr. Yunus further mentioned a recent historic meeting with 19 ambassadors of the European Union (EU). For the first time, nearly all EU ambassadors came together to Dhaka to meet with the government, a significant gesture reflecting their strong support for Bangladesh.
“A few days ago, I held a meeting with 19 ambassadors from the European Union (EU). For the first time, nearly all EU ambassadors gathered together in Dhaka to meet with the government. This is a historic event, as most of these embassies are based in Delhi, and many of the ambassadors had never visited Dhaka before. They came together to send a clear message that the European Union stands ready to offer Bangladesh their fullest support and cooperation”, he added.
Dr. Yunus said his government briefed the EU diplomats on the interim government’s reform initiatives and commitment to holding democratic elections.
“I briefed the EU diplomats on the interim government’s reform initiatives and the democratic process for elections. They extended their full support and assured us of maximum cooperation. I also informed them about the misinformation campaigns against Bangladesh.”
Addressing issues faced by Bangladeshi students, he said, “I requested EU countries with visa offices in New Delhi to consider relocating them to Dhaka or neighbouring countries. Many Bangladeshi students encounter difficulties in obtaining visas to enroll in European universities. Establishing visa centres in Dhaka would significantly reduce their hardships.”
On Bangladesh’s economic progress, Dr. Yunus said, “The interim government has successfully restored confidence among donor agencies, including the World Bank, regarding the future of our economy. They are now engaging with renewed enthusiasm and interest to establish new financial partnerships with us. Both domestically and internationally, confidence in the economy is returning.”
Reflecting on the economic situation when the interim government took office, he said, “The economy was on the brink of collapse. Over the past four months, we have seen a significant turnaround. Confidence and discipline have returned to the banking sector. No banks had to be closed down; even the weakest ones have been sustained.”
Published – December 16, 2024 11:05 am IST