Bangladesh’s Yunus Promises “Festive” Elections in February

Bangladesh’s interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, announced that the parliamentary elections will take place in a “festive atmosphere” during the first half of February 2025. His statement comes amid reports of violence across the country, indicating heightened tensions as the nation prepares for this significant electoral event.

In a televised address, Yunus outlined plans for the elections, which will coincide with a national referendum on the July National Charter, aimed at implementing constitutional reforms. This announcement followed several violent incidents, including a crude bomb explosion near Dhaka University and an arson attack on a bus in Tangra, both reported on November 12.

Yunus emphasized that the elections and the referendum would occur on the same day, reaffirming his commitment to a peaceful electoral process. He stated, “The parliamentary elections will be held in a festive atmosphere in the first half of February. The referendum on the July Charter will be held on the same day as the parliamentary elections.”

The upcoming parliamentary framework will establish a bicameral legislature. The Upper House will consist of 100 members, proportionally representing party vote shares from the national elections. Constitutional changes will necessitate a majority approval from this Upper House, reflecting a significant shift in governance structure.

During his address, Yunus noted that the decision to hold the referendum was approved in a recent adviser council meeting. He described the initiative as a crucial step toward implementing reforms that emerged from last year’s anti-government protests, which ultimately led to the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

The July National Charter was formulated by the National Consensus Commission after extensive discussions with various political factions and civil society representatives. This charter lays out a framework for reforms intended to enhance democracy, accountability, and governance in Bangladesh, particularly following the student-led uprising in 2024.

The referendum will seek public approval for several key reforms, including the establishment of a caretaker government and an independent Election Commission during election periods. Additionally, it aims to create a bicameral parliament and implement 30 consensus-based reforms focused on issues such as women’s representation, parliamentary oversight, and judicial independence. Should voters favor these proposals, a Constitution Reform Council will be established to facilitate constitutional amendments within 180 working days of its first session.

Yunus highlighted the interim government’s achievements over the past 15 months, noting significant reforms aimed at ensuring judicial independence, improving the financial system, enhancing transparency, and combating corruption. He reported a strong recovery in Bangladesh’s economy, marked by increased exports, reserves, and foreign investment.

Towards the conclusion of his address, Yunus called for political unity as the country approaches the elections. He cautioned that any divisions among parties that supported last year’s uprising could jeopardize the democratic transition. “The unity that the countrymen forged in July 2024, standing tall against fascism in the face of death, must not be undermined by us, the living, by getting entangled in minor disagreements and petty disputes,” he urged.

He expressed hope that all political parties would embrace the upcoming electoral process in the greater interest of the nation, stating, “Through this, we will enter a new Bangladesh. We have arrived at the threshold of building a new Bangladesh.”

As Bangladesh approaches this pivotal moment in its political landscape, the focus remains on ensuring a safe and fair electoral process that reflects the will of the people.