Bangladesh's interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, said on Wednesday that general elections are likely to take place in late 2025 or early 2026. Yunus, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, was appointed as the "chief adviser" of the caretaker government following a student-led revolution in August that ousted long-time leader Sheikh Hasina.
In a televised address, the 84-year-old microfinance pioneer underscored the challenges his administration faces in rebuilding democratic institutions in the South Asian nation of over 170 million.
Elections Timeline Unveiled
The calendar, however, Yunus underlined, depended upon vital political concurrence and fundamental reform packages being carried through: "The election dates can be set for the end of 2025 or by the middle of 2026". Yunus made these observations today.There has been growing pressure on the interim government to name a date, particularly after the political chaos that saw Hasina removed. The 77-year-old former prime minister escaped to neighboring India when protests swept the capital Dhaka.
Background of Unrest
Hasina's government was criticized for alleged human rights abuses, political repression, and controversial electoral practices during her 15-year rule. Her rule was marred by accusations of politicizing the judiciary, detaining opposition figures, and orchestrating extrajudicial killings.Mass protests marked the uprising that ousted her government last August, which left hundreds dead in clashes between police and protesters. Many were shot dead by police, while scores died in reprisal attacks by anti-government protesters targeting supporters of her ruling Awami League.
Yunus Pushes for Reforms Before Elections
Yunus emphasized that all reforms must be in place to ensure a transparent and truly democratic election process. "Reforms must be put in place before elections are arranged," he said. He has already formed commissions to monitor changes in the governance system, including an accurate voter list and voting rights for all citizens."If the political parties agree to an earlier timeline with minimal reforms, such as completing a perfect voter list, then the election can be held as early as the end of November," Yunus added.
A Pivotal Moment for Bangladesh
Bangladesh now stands at the crossroads, with Yunus having to steer the country toward democratic stability. The timeline for holding elections will be determined as and when current reforms come through and there is maximum cooperation from political factions.This may prove to be the new chapter that Bangladesh will need to embark upon in her quest to rebuild democracy, after years of political unrest. The whole world would be watching every step he takes in steering the nation through this period of turmoil.