Rupa Huq, a British MP of Bangladeshi descent, has urged that attention should be directed towards necessary reforms rather than rushing into elections.
"Bangladesh has experienced a particularly tumultuous period over the past few years, and the current focus should be on restoring stability," she said during an event at Atish Dipankar University in Dhaka on Wednesday (8 January).
She expressed, "I haven’t had many opportunities to visit Bangladesh. The last time I came, the Awami League was in power. They have indeed achieved a lot. For instance, load shedding is no longer as common, and there are fewer inconveniences at the airport. However, I noticed only two pictures everywhere — those of Sheikh Mujib and Sheikh Hasina."
Referring to the events of the July uprising, she said, "Many people were shot and killed during July and August. I've heard of Abu Sayeed and others like him. Even students were murdered. These are not just crimes; they are crimes against humanity."
Huq further noted that Bangladesh is an emerging nation, smaller than the UK but with a vibrant young workforce that needs to be mobilised for state reforms.
On 4 January, Huq met with the interim government's chief adviser, Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus.
During this meeting, Dr Yunus assured her that the upcoming national elections in Bangladesh would be entirely free and fair.
Dr Yunus informed the British MP that there are two possible timelines for the next national parliamentary elections in Bangladesh: December 2025 or mid-2026.
However, the election schedule will depend on the extent of reforms the people desire.
