Yunus promises free elections post-reforms
Bangladesh's interim leader Yunus vows reforms before free, fair elections
Bangladesh’s interim government’s Chief Adviser, Muhammad Yunus, assured the nation on Sunday free and fair elections will be conducted following critical reforms across various sectors. He urged the public to be patient as these substantial challenges are addressed.
Yunus, 84, speaking in a televised address, outlined that reforms in administration, the judiciary, the election commission, the electoral system, law and order, and information flow systems must be completed before a participatory election can take place. These reforms aim to honour the student-led protests that resulted in significant political changes.
Having taken office on August 8 after the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina due to a massive student movement, Yunus stated the interim government would work towards decentralising power and strengthening local government institutions to bolster democracy. The Nobel Laureate economist emphasised the goal of establishing an accountable political system.
Yunus did not specify a timeline for the interim government’s tenure but acknowledged public curiosity about its duration. He reassured that the interim government is temporary and its members, who are satisfied with their professions, took on these roles in response to the national crisis prompted by student protests.
Criticising the previous administration, Yunus described it as a “fascist autocratic regime” that damaged national institutions, crippled the economy and education system, and suppressed voices through intimidation and torture. He committed to ensuring justice for crimes such as extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and kidnappings, promising that those responsible would be prosecuted.
Yunus stressed the importance of national unity, announcing the appointment of a special assistant with the status of an adviser to foster national solidarity. He urged citizens to avoid storming institutions, intimidating individuals, and putting undue pressure on the judicial process.
He highlighted the need for patience in overcoming the significant challenges facing the nation, asking the public to refrain from expecting immediate solutions. Yunus reiterated that the timing of the election is a political decision and would depend on the people’s will.
This address marked Yunus’s second speech to the nation since his appointment as Chief Adviser.
What Other Media Are Saying
- The Daily Star highlights the need for vital reforms in Bangladesh’s electoral process to ensure a robust and representative democracy.(read more)
- Times of India reports that early elections in Bangladesh are unlikely due to the interim government’s focus on implementing vital reforms before holding a “free, fair and participatory” election.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
When will the election in Bangladesh be held?
After vital reforms in administration, judiciary, and election systems.
What reforms is the interim government planning?
Reforms in administration, judiciary, election commission, law and order, and information flow systems.
How long will Muhammad Yunus’s interim government stay in power?
The timing of the election is a political decision; people will decide.
What is the goal of Yunus’s interim government?
To introduce an accountable political system and ensure decentralization.
What will happen to those involved in heinous crimes during the previous regime?
All involved in extrajudicial killings, disappearances, murders, and kidnappings will be prosecuted.
