Bangladesh’s Interim Government has reaffirmed its commitment to holding elections on schedule, dismissing any possibility of delays, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus said Thursday.
During a meeting with an International Crisis Group delegation led by Dr Comfort Ero, Yunus stated that the government has set two potential election timelines. If political parties agree on a limited set of reforms, elections will be held in December. If a broader reform package is pursued, the polls will take place by June next year. He emphasized that the election dates are final and will not change.
Addressing concerns about the Awami League, Yunus clarified that while the party will not be banned, its leaders accused of serious crimes, including murder and crimes against humanity, will face trial in Bangladeshi courts.
He also noted that a referral of Awami League leaders to the International Criminal Court remains a possibility following a UN fact-finding mission’s findings on the July uprising.
The chief adviser highlighted that the Consensus Building Commission has initiated discussions with political parties and is working to finalize the July Charter, which will guide the government’s policies.
International Crisis Group officials commended the recent arrest of Rohingya insurgent leader Ataullah, calling it a significant step toward peace and stability in the refugee camps. They also urged Bangladesh to enhance engagement with the Arakan Army, which controls much of Myanmar’s Rakhine State.
Yunus reassured that Dhaka is mobilizing aid for Rohingya refugees and expressed hope that the upcoming special UN conference on the crisis will bring greater global attention to the issue.
Dr Comfort Ero voiced support for Bangladesh in countering misinformation targeting the country and its Interim Government. Yunus concluded by stressing Bangladesh’s commitment to strong ties with India, though he acknowledged concerns over misinformation originating from Indian media.
