Bangladesh’s political crisis can move closer to an end with Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus set to make a statement on the date of the forthcoming parliament polls. The development came after a high-level meeting between Yunus and the major political parties at the State Guest House Jamuna.
As unrest has gripped the country and criticism mounted, leaders of all political hues have demanded a quick shift to democratic norms. The chief election commissioner also emphasized the huge stakes at hand, threatening of serious repercussions if the country does not deliver a fair and credible election.
Yunus assures election date soon
Jatiya Party chairman of the Kazi Zafar faction Jamal Haider said that Yunus pledged an election schedule in four or five days. Haider declared it the most productive result of the talks and underlined that polls are the sole way to curbing the current chaos. “Elections will end the anarchy,” he stated, hoping for political instability to be addressed through democratic processes.
Political leaders criticize law and order breakdown
But not all left the meeting satisfied, Dr Mostafizur Rahman Iran, the Chairman of Bangladesh Labour Party, harshly criticized the Yunus government. He blamed the government for not being able to keep law and order and raised doubt about the success of any further operation.
In reaction, Yunus cautioned that cynical forces were actively attempting to undermine the electoral process. He called on all “anti-fascist” political forces to join together to counter such forces. “If all the forces of the revolution fail to gather together to conduct a fair election, we will miss this great chance,” Yunus said, again insisting on inclusive collaboration.
CEC issues a serious warning
Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin also put more at stake, describing the 13th national election as a test of stature for the nation. He declared in Khulna that if they failed, the whole country would have to suffer the consequences. He underscored restoration of public confidence and ensuring high turnout of voters as important objectives.
The CEC explained that until Bangladesh revises its Constitution, elections will proceed as per usual protocol. He further stated that the schedule for elections, including time and rules for nominations, would be announced two months beforehand.
Hasina’s party continues to be banned
Importantly, former PM Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League continues to be banned from election participation, which has created uncertainties regarding the inclusivity and legitimacy of the democratic process.
