Dhaka: Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today reaffirmed his government's commitment to holding a free, fair, transparent, and festive general election in the first half of February next year. He made the remarks during a meeting with a delegation of Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) led by Mounir Satouri at the State Guest House Jamuna in the city.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Professor Yunus noted growing enthusiasm among the public, particularly the youth, as student body elections have resumed in universities after years, with some institutions holding them for the first time in over three decades. He assured the delegation that the general election would be peaceful, clean, transparent, and festive, despite efforts by certain forces to delay the polls. The interim government remains resolute in ensuring the elections proceed as scheduled.
Professor Yunus expressed confidence that young voters would turn out in record numbers, marking the first time in over 15 years that many of them will be casting their ballots. He emphasized that the upcoming February election would signify a new beginning for Bangladesh, marking a new chapter in the nation's history.
During the hour-long discussion, the Chief Adviser and the MEPs exchanged views on the government's reform initiatives, the European Union's continued support for Bangladesh's development and democratic transition, and the ongoing Rohingya humanitarian crisis. The visiting MEPs expressed optimism that the upcoming election could be a pivotal moment for Bangladesh. A Dutch MEP remarked that Bangladesh may be among the few countries where "things are moving in the right direction."
Professor Yunus thanked the EU for its steadfast support and called for increased funding for the more than one million Rohingyas residing in Bangladesh, particularly urging assistance to help reopen schools in the camps, which were recently shut down due to an aid shortfall. Lutfey Siddiqi, Special Envoy to the Chief Adviser, highlighted key labour reforms implemented by the interim government, noting that these steps would be instrumental in strengthening Bangladesh-EU relations.