On Victory Day, Dr. Yunus Outlines Election Timeline and Calls for National Unity
The head of Bangladesh's interim government, Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, has announced that the country’s next national election is expected to take place between the end of 2025 and the first half of 2026. He shared this timeline in a televised address to the nation on Monday, December 16, marking the first Victory Day following the recent student-led uprising. The speech was broadcast on Bangladesh Television (BTV) and BTV World at 10 a.m.
In his address, Professor Yunus stated, "If we carry out minimal reforms to ensure an accurate voter list, the election could be held by the end of 2025. However, if we incorporate additional reforms based on the Election Commission's recommendations and national consensus, it might require an extra six months. Broadly speaking, the timeline for the election can be set between the end of 2025 and the first half of 2026."
He expressed his aspiration for full participation by first-time voters in the upcoming election, saying, “It is my earnest wish that this election will create a legacy of near 100% turnout among first-time young voters. I urge the Election Commission, all social institutions, and political parties to work together to design innovative programs to achieve this goal. If we can ensure near 100% voter turnout among first-time voters, starting from local elections to all future elections, no government will dare to infringe on people’s voting rights again.”
Discussing the need for political consensus in implementing reforms, Professor Yunus highlighted the formation of six reform commissions by the interim government, which are expected to submit their final reports soon. He announced plans to establish a “National Consensus Formation Commission” comprising the heads of these six commissions. This new body will engage with political parties and other stakeholders to identify consensus areas and recommend their implementation.
“I will personally chair this National Consensus Formation Commission, given its crucial importance to the interim government’s duties,” he said. “Professor Ali Riaz will serve as the vice-chairman of the commission. The commission will have the authority to co-opt new members if necessary. I hope the commission will commence its work next month after receiving the final reports from the six reform commissions.”
Acknowledging challenges in controlling inflation, Professor Yunus admitted that the interim government has not yet achieved its desired results. “In recent months, the prices of certain essential goods have increased. We are working to stabilize prices by boosting supply, reducing import duties, curbing the influence of middlemen, and strengthening market monitoring. Transport sector extortion has not been completely eliminated yet. If we can address this, we hope prices will decrease further. We empathize with your struggles, but we know the government’s role is not just to express sympathy. We are making every effort to ease your burdens.”
In a call for unity, the interim leader urged all citizens to remain united in the face of attempts to divide the nation. “I call on everyone—irrespective of political affiliation, ideology, race, religion, caste, or age—to stay united. We toppled a powerful autocratic government through national unity. They are now trying their best to divide the nation by sowing communal discord and spreading hostility. Do not let these vile efforts succeed in any way.”
