Dhaka, Aug 22 (V7N) – Chief Advisor Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus has reiterated that Bangladesh’s 13th national election will be held in February 2025, assuring both the nation and the international community of a free, fair and peaceful process. He also reaffirmed his earlier pledge that he will not hold any elected or appointed position in the government formed after the polls.

In an article published Thursday by the Deseret News, a Utah-based U.S. outlet, Dr. Yunus outlined the interim government’s priorities, including the upcoming election, reforms, and the legacy of the July Uprising.

“The main goal of my government is to organize a free, fair and peaceful election, where political parties can share their plans with voters,” Yunus wrote. “Our mission is to ensure that all eligible citizens, including those living abroad, can cast their votes. This is a big task, but we are committed to completing it.”

Reflecting on the state of the country when he assumed office, the Chief Advisor said he was “shocked by the level of mismanagement,” citing dwindling reserves, a broken economy, partisan favoritism in civil service promotions, and a collapsed democracy. He credited the armed forces for refusing to suppress protesters on August 5 and for helping restore law and order.

Yunus highlighted the role of Generation Z in sparking the movement, calling it the world’s first youth-led revolution of its kind. “This revolution has become a model for young people everywhere, showing how they can address the greatest challenges of humanity—war, climate change, poverty, unemployment and inequality,” he said.

On reforms, the Chief Advisor revealed that his administration, in consultation with experts, political parties and citizens, has prepared a comprehensive reform proposal, including a constitutional amendment to prevent Bangladesh from returning to authoritarian rule.

He also pointed to a global recognition of progress, noting that The Economist named Bangladesh the “Best Country of 2024” after the mass uprising. “We were so busy rebuilding the economy, preparing for elections, and recovering billions of dollars of stolen assets that we did not realize how seriously the world was watching our progress,” Yunus wrote.

Concluding his article, Dr. Yunus said the ongoing journey is a collective effort: “All those who are with us at this crucial moment have a responsibility. They are our best hope—and perhaps our last hope.”

END/SMA/AJ