Dhaka: Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today urged divisional commissioners and deputy commissioners (DCs) to carry out their responsibilities in the forthcoming national election and referendum with utmost honesty, neutrality, and dedication, stating that the 2026 election is pivotal for the country’s future. “This election is not a conventional one-rather, it is an election to save the country,” he addressed officials at the Shapla Hall of the Chief Adviser’s Office (CAO) this morning.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Professor Yunus described the upcoming election as more significant than a regular five-year cycle, particularly because it includes a referendum. He emphasized the need to overcome past electoral shortcomings and stated, “This is the first election after the people’s uprising; this election will give completeness to that uprising. Through this election, the century-long course of the nation will be determined.”
Professor Yunus highlighted the essential role of the DCs, asserting that there is no room for failure. He described the election as a rebirth for the nation, likening the DCs to midwives in this process. He urged them to ensure the election is both festive and peaceful.
The Chief Adviser pointed out that many young and female voters have been unable to vote for the past 15 years and charged the DCs with creating a joyful voting atmosphere for these groups. International observers have shown keen interest in the election, he noted, stating, “They want to see how this election is conducted-they are extremely keen to observe it.”
He referred to the elections as a battle, asserting, “We must win this battle to survive as a free nation.” The meeting was moderated by Cabinet Secretary Dr. Sheikh Abdur Rashid and attended by Planning Adviser Wahiduddin Mahmud, Home Affairs Adviser Lieutenant General (Retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, Industries Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan, and Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs Adviser Dr. Asif Nazrul.
Divisional Commissioner of Dhaka Sharf Uddin Ahmed Choudhury, newly appointed DC to Bogura district Toufiqur Rahman, and Tangail DC Begum Sharifa Haque also spoke at the event, sharing their preparations for the upcoming polls.