Dhaka: Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today announced that the Election Commission (EC) will soon be formed, with an election roadmap to follow after completing electoral system reforms. “Once the electoral reforms are decided, you will get the election roadmap very soon,” he stated during a national address broadcast on Bangladesh Television and BTV World, marking the interim government’s 100-day milestone.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Prof Yunus emphasized the government’s commitment to conducting free and fair elections, stating that the necessary steps are already underway. He assured the public that once the EC is formed, it will take on the responsibility of organizing the polls, including updating the voter list. The government, he noted, is actively engaging with political parties to incorporate their views into the reform process, with the hope that reform commissions will submit their recommendations by December-January.
Prof Yunus highlighted efforts to enable Bangladeshi exp
atriates to vote via postal ballots and reiterated the interim government’s pledge to create a robust electoral system. He also mentioned the significant progress made by six reform commissions, encouraging public participation through digital platforms to voice opinions on election reforms.
The chief adviser outlined the interim government’s broader goals, including restructuring the state system and addressing corruption. Measures include appointing over 1,000 prosecutors, hiring 23 new High Court judges, and advancing the restructuring of the Anti-Corruption Commission. Additionally, a list of influential individuals accused of corruption is under investigation, and the provision allowing the legalization of undeclared assets has been abolished.
Prof Yunus also addressed economic reforms, noting discussions with international agencies and foreign governments to bolster Bangladesh’s financial standing. He reported significant pledges of aid and investments, which are expected to strengthen the economy. Th
e government has also raised the age limit for government job entry, reduced hajj costs, and taken steps to promote environmental sustainability.
He concluded by urging all citizens to remain steadfast in this historic opportunity for the nation, while paying tribute to those who sacrificed for Bangladesh’s independence and democracy.