Tokyo, May 29 (V7N) – Chief Advisor to Bangladesh’s interim government, Dr. Muhammad Yunus, has said that not all political parties but only one is insisting on holding national elections by December. Speaking at the prestigious Nikkei Forum 2025 in Tokyo, Dr. Yunus reiterated that he has no political ambitions and intends to transfer power to an elected government.

“I will hand over power to a political government through elections,” he said, while also calling for Japan’s cooperation in building a new and reformed Bangladesh.

Held at the Imperial Hotel in Tokyo, the Nikkei Forum was inaugurated with Dr. Yunus as the opening discussant. In his speech, the Nobel Laureate highlighted the significance of the July Uprising in Bangladesh, the ongoing Rohingya refugee crisis, and his vision for a modern, reformed Bangladesh. He urged Asian countries, particularly Japan, to assist in the country’s transformation.

“I hope Japan will support the dream of building a new Bangladesh,” Dr. Yunus stated. “Asian countries must set aside internal conflicts and foster cooperation. Our shared goal should be collective prosperity—not competition.”

During the forum’s Q&A session, Dr. Yunus launched a scathing critique of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, accusing her of widespread human rights abuses including enforced disappearances and politically motivated killings during her 16-year tenure. He also alleged that Hasina laundered $16 billion annually and left the economy in ruins—a situation he claimed the interim government is now reversing.

Addressing the timing of the upcoming general election, Dr. Yunus stressed that only one party is demanding a December vote. “Reforms will be rushed if elections are held in December,” he cautioned. “If we are given six more months, the reforms will be more meaningful and sustainable.”

Nevertheless, the Chief Advisor confirmed that preparations for holding the election are underway. “We are committed to conducting elections. But the timing must ensure proper reform, stability, and the trust of all stakeholders,” he added.

The comments have sparked renewed debate in Bangladesh, where opposition parties, particularly the BNP, are pressing for a December vote, while others remain concerned about the pace and depth of reforms under the interim setup.

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