[🇧🇩] Forming Election Commission/Conducting Elections

[Saif]

Elections without reforms may lead to dictatorship again: Badiul Alam

The movement was not merely intended to topple Sheikh Hasina; rather it was for changing the dictatorial system and reforms.

en.prothomalo.com

Elections without reforms may lead to dictatorship again: Badiul Alam
Staff Correspondent
Dhaka
Published: 01 Mar 2025, 15: 55

Shujan holds a human chain at Manik Mia Avenue in Dhaka on 1 March, 2025.Prothom Alo

Sushashoner Jonno Nagorik (Shujan) secretary Badiul Alam Majumdar has laid emphasis on carrying out reforms prior to elections, saying that an election without proper reforms may lead to a reemergence of dictatorship.

He made the statement while addressing a human chain at Manik Mia Avenue in the capital on Saturday, organised by the civil society platform.

He clarified that the movement was not merely intended to topple Sheikh Hasina; rather it was for changing the dictatorial system and reforming its systems, processes, and institutions. “The dictatorial system had turned Sheikh Hasina into a monster.”

The Shujan secretary further explained that Sheikh Hasina did not emerge as an autocrat out of nowhere. She became it through a systematic process.

“This system needs to be reformed. For a free and fair election, the political sphere needs cleansing. Otherwise, dictatorship will emerge again. Let no ugly person enter this beautiful building of Louis Kahn.” he cautioned.

No foreign aid at Shujan

Addressing allegations that Sujan received funding from the US government to strengthen the political situation in Bangladesh, Badiul Alam dismissed the claims as baseless.

“This is completely false. Sujan is not a registered organisation and therefore cannot receive any foreign aid. It operates with assistance from various individuals," he said.

He described the information on US funding as ‘deep fake news,’ saying, “It does not have minimum substance. The dictator's allies are spreading this disinformation to create controversy.”​

 

[Saif]

Holding polls this year may be difficult

National Citizen Party leader Nahid Islam said the interim government has been unable to fully ensure public safety, and holding a general election this year will be difficult.

www.thedailystar.net

Holding polls this year may be difficult
Says Nahid citing security concerns

National Citizen Party leader Nahid Islam said the interim government has been unable to fully ensure public safety, and holding a general election this year will be difficult.

Former prime minister Sheikh Hasina was ousted last August in the wake of mass student-led protests. The interim government, headed by Nobel laureate Prof Muhammad Yunus, said this month that the election could be held by the end of 2025.

"In the past seven months, we all expected the policing system, law and order to be restored through short-term reforms. It has happened to an extent, but not up to our expectations," said Nahid.

"In the current law and order situation and policing system, I don't think it is possible to hold a national election," the 26-year-old said in his first interview as NCP head at his government-provided villa in Dhaka.

Nahid, who was until recently an adviser to the interim government, is the first politician of significance to cast doubt on Yunus' timeframe for an election.

Political analysts believe his youth-led party could significantly reshape national politics, dominated for decades by Hasina's Awami League party and her rival, former prime minister Khaleda Zia's BNP.

Those parties have demanded early elections, arguing that power should be returned to a democratically elected government.

Nahid said the NCP, which was formed just last week, would be ready for the polls whenever they are held.

However, he added that before elections can be held, it would be crucial to reach a consensus on the so-called "Proclamation of the July Revolution" -- a charter that the interim government plans to prepare in consultations with political parties and student activists.

The document is intended to reflect the aspirations of the Bangladeshi people and honour the people who died in last year's violence. Student protestors dropped calls for changes to the constitution after the interim government said it would prepare the proclamation.

"If we can reach that consensus within a month, we can call for elections immediately. But if it takes more time, the election should be deferred," he added.

Many affluent people across Bangladesh are helping finance the party, said Nahid, adding that it will soon look to crowdfunding for a new office and creating a fund for the election.​

 

[Saif]

অস্থিরতার কারণে এ বছর নির্বাচন আয়োজন কঠিন হতে পারে: রয়টার্সকে নাহিদ

 

[Saif]

Election possible in December if political parties agree to minor reforms, says Yunus

The next general election could take place within December if political parties agree to hold it with minor reforms, Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus has said. If the reform process is extended, the polls may be delayed by another six months, he added. The interim prime minister discussed the timing

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Election possible in December if political parties agree to minor reforms, says Yunus
bdnews24.com
Published :
Mar 06, 2025 23:16
Updated :
Mar 06, 2025 23:16

The next general election could take place within December if political parties agree to hold it with minor reforms, Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus has said.

If the reform process is extended, the polls may be delayed by another six months, he added.

The interim prime minister discussed the timing of the parliamentary election during a meeting with former United States diplomats William B Milam and Jon Danilowicz at the State Guest House Jamuna on Thursday.

The talks also covered Bangladesh-US relations, the Rohingya crisis and the impact of dwindling international aid for refugees, efforts to recover large sums of money laundered under the previous administration, and the revival of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation, or SAARC.

Yunus-led interim administration took charge with a pledge to reform the state following the ouster of the Awami League government through mass uprising.

The reform commissions formed by the government have already submitted their recommendations, which are now being discussed with political parties.

“The political parties will sign the July Charter after completing dialogues on the six commissions' recommended reforms. This charter will guide us forward,” the chief advisor said.

He added that the caretaker administration would implement some of the charter’s recommendations while the rest would be carried out by the next elected government.

The chief advisor’s press wing said the meeting with Milam, president of Right to Freedom, and Danilowicz, its executive director, lasted nearly an hour.

Milam served as the US ambassador to Bangladesh in the early 1990s, while Danilowicz was the deputy chief of mission at the US embassies in Dhaka.

Milam praised the interim government’s reform initiatives.

The envoy said the July Uprising had created an opportunity for major reforms and paved the way for true democracy to flourish in Bangladesh.

Danilowicz stressed the importance of presenting positive developments in Bangladesh and countering misinformation and fake news.

Both diplomats discussed plans to expand Right to Freedom’s activities in Bangladesh and expressed the organisation’s interest in supporting the country’s democratic transition.

Yunus appreciated their efforts and the organisation’s work in upholding human rights and democratic values.​

 

[Saif]

Parliamentary polls should come first to hand over power to people: Rizvi

He slammed what he called the government's dilly-dallying attitude toward holding elections, despite providing a clear election timeline.

en.prothomalo.com

Parliamentary polls should come first to hand over power to people: Rizvi
Staff Correspondent
Dhaka
Published: 07 Mar 2025, 19: 28

Ruhul Kabir Rizvi speaks at a programme in Rajshahi on 7 March, 2025. Prothom Alo

The senior joint secretary general of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, has reiterated that parliamentary elections should be prioritised over local government polls in order to hand over power to the people.

He made the statement while addressing a courtesy meeting and prayer programme for the families of the July uprising martyrs from Rajshahi and Chapainawabganj on Friday.

An organisation called ‘We Are BNP Family’ organised the programme on the Shaheed Minar premises of Bhuban Mohan Park in Rajshahi.

“The national parliamentary elections need to be held first, and the local government elections should follow. Reform is an ongoing process. It will continue... so that no form of fascism emerges in the future,” he said. “If a father is not born, how will he have a child? The national parliamentary polls need to be held first to hand over power to the people.”

Questioning the ongoing reform process, Rizvi said, “Those who are now talking about reforms, can you please say how many days are required to carry them out? The police should act according to the law and refrain from entertaining any influential individuals. It must be established that institutions will run as per the law. How many days are required for this?”

He slammed what he called the government's dilly-dallying attitude toward holding elections, despite providing a clear election timeline. “Why this dilly-dallying approach for the election? The government itself specified a month for the election, saying polls might be held in December. Meanwhile, some people are saying – no, it is difficult to hold an election within this timeframe. It is up to the election commission to hold the election, while the government will assist.”

Criticising India’s role, the BNP leader said, “It surprises me when I often notice that India discusses Bangladesh issues during its trips to America… India discusses Bangladesh issues with the US president. I saw in today’s newspaper that India is discussing Bangladesh with the United Kingdom. Why? Isn’t there a government in Bangladesh? Isn’t it an independent country? It has its own flag and national anthem. You are a neighbouring country, a separate independent nation. Why are you so concerned about Bangladesh? Who has given you the responsibility to discuss Bangladesh with other countries?”​

 

[Saif]

US role during 1/11: Prioritising polls over reforms was a ‘great mistake’

Washington made a “great mistake” during Bangladesh’s 2007-08 political crisis by prioritising election timelines over public aspirations and fundamental reforms, said former US diplomat Jon Danilowicz yesterday.

www.thedailystar.net

US role during 1/11: Prioritising polls over reforms was a ‘great mistake’
Says former diplomat

Jon Danilowicz

Washington made a "great mistake" during Bangladesh's 2007-08 political crisis by prioritising election timelines over public aspirations and fundamental reforms, said former US diplomat Jon Danilowicz yesterday.

Speaking at a discussion on "Navigating the Dynamics of Bangladesh-US Relations After the Mass Uprising," organised by the Centre for Governance Studies (CGS) at the BIISS Auditorium yesterday, he said the current interim government has taken a more effective approach by fostering national consensus on reform.

Danilowicz, who served as political and economic counsellor at the US embassy in Dhaka from 2007 to 2011, witnessed the military-backed caretaker government's tenure following mass protests against the BNP-Jamaat alliance.

He said the US and other stakeholders focused too heavily on the army's position rather than the demands of the Bangladeshi people.

"I am the first to acknowledge that the United States made great mistakes in the 2007-08 period," he said. "We put too much emphasis on elections and their timeline instead of ensuring lasting political reforms."

The caretaker government had initially pushed for reforms, but once it prioritised holding elections and stepping down, it lost leverage with political parties, he explained. Agreements between the caretaker government and political leaders were made in secret, leaving uncertainty about commitments from figures such as Sheikh Hasina.

"Our perception was that the Awami League and Sheikh Hasina had learned lessons and were committed to reforms," he said. "As history turned out, we were wrong. That miscalculation contributed to the gradual decline, culminating in the summer of 2024."

Danilowicz believes the current interim government, led by Chief Adviser Prof Yunus, has learned from past mistakes and is now pursuing genuine reforms. The US supports this agenda while refraining from setting an arbitrary election date.

Asked about Awami League's participation in the next election, he said, "That decision rests solely with the people of Bangladesh."

On accountability, he stressed that elections alone do not ensure it. "The International Crimes Tribunal process and legal mechanisms are also critical in holding individuals accountable."

Former US ambassador William B Milam also spoke at the event, moderated by CGS Executive Director Zillur Rahman.

Milam reaffirmed Washington's commitment to democracy and human rights in Bangladesh, regardless of which party holds power.

He said that while Donald Trump's foreign policy may have had some deviations, the US generally supports democracies, not autocrats.

Milam said his organisation has been working for five years to raise awareness among the American public about Bangladesh's democratic trajectory and secure funding to continue this effort.

Danilowicz highlighted the lack of accountability among Bangladesh's ruling parties as a major political challenge and warned that the country is facing an "information warfare" threat, much of it originating from India.

He urged Washington to engage with Bangladesh independently rather than viewing it solely through the lens of India.​

 

[Saif]

What’s ahead? How far is the national election?

It suddenly seems like something new is about to happen in the country’s political arena. Chief advisor professor Muhammad Yunus has been saying for some time that the national parliamentary elections will be held by December. The chief advisor initially mentioned this outside the country. Since...

en.prothomalo.com

What’s ahead? How far is the national election?
Mahmudur Rahman Manna
Updated: 12 Mar 2025, 08: 45

Election Commission logo

It suddenly seems that something new is going to happen in the country’s political situation. Chief adviser professor Muhammad Yunus has been saying for some time that the national parliamentary elections will be held by December. The chief adviser initially mentioned this outside the country. Since then, he has been consistently stating this. Almost everyone, including the country's political parties, believed this. Discussions about this had started in villages and even around tea tables. But suddenly, he said the election would be held between December and March.

At that time, environment, forest, and climate change adviser Rizwana Hasan first said that the election would take place between December and June. Shortly after, the new leader of the National Citizen Party (NCP), Nahid Islam, said that the election environment had not yet been created in the country. Describing the state of the administration and police, he mentioned that the police were not yet in a condition to hold elections.

During an interview with former US ambassador and president of the US-based human rights organisation Right to Freedom, William B Milam, and former American diplomat, John F Danilowicz, chief adviser professor Muhammad Yunus said that there would be discussions with political parties regarding the proposals made by six commissions about reforms.

After the dialogue, the political parties would sign the July Charter. The interim government would implement some of the recommendations from this charter, while the remaining parts would be implemented by the next political government.

Professor Yunus also said that if the political parties agree to fewer reforms before the election, the election could take place in December. Otherwise, the national election would be held by June of the following year.

Doesn't this sound a bit unclear? The July Charter and reforms are certainly not the same thing. But the way the chief adviser is speaking, it seems that if there is national consensus on the July Charter, then later there will be a consensus on reforms. This needs further discussion.

Readers must remember the July Charter or July Proclamation. At that time, it was referred to as a proclamation. The students were very serious about this issue. They were particularly upset that there was no proclamation about the July uprising. Because of this, they blamed the government. In response, the government had said that a proclamation could not be made alone and required consensus, and that it would start discussions with political parties to build that consensus.

The July Charter or Proclamation doesn't just refer to the July Uprising; it’s part of history. Therefore, it has a past, a present, and future directions. Those who were part of the movement say it represents continuity, and this continuity can be traced back from the 1952 language movement up to today. Many, even in the context of India's partition, find the direction for Bangladesh’s history in today's situation. To be more specific, the Proclamation is something that explains the period of turmoil and inspires hope for future building. It is an analysis that instills hope, not a framework for state reform.

At the end of December, student movement coordinators had pressured for a proclamation. They even prepared a draft charter and sent it to political parties and various stakeholders. Readers must recall that at that time, various stakeholders did not show much interest in the students' initiative. It wasn’t because they neglected the students; it was a matter of how they chose to engage with the issue. Since this is a major political question, it needed to be viewed in the broader context of overall politics. Some might agree with the proposed charter, some might agree partially, and others might not agree with the overall concept at all.

State reforms are not synonymous with the charter. Reforms, especially in today’s context, refer to qualitative changes in the constitution and election procedures. This is not the July Uprising’s charter in any sense. The government formed six commissions, which have submitted their reports. These six commissions have created six spreadsheets, where stakeholders can suggest yes/no responses or propose minor changes. There is a scope of ticking or making proposals. The process of these two is different.

Are these two seen as the same? There’s no chance of that. Moreover, if the parties agree to minor reforms, the election could be in December, but if not, it could be postponed until March or June. Doesn’t this statement create confusion about reforms? Is the issue about fewer or more reforms really like this?

Seven months later, the entire nation, based on real experience, now understands the necessary reforms for a good and acceptable election. For example, Nahid Islam, the newly formed political party’s leader, believes that the country’s police force is not at all prepared to conduct a good election. I agree with this. The question is, couldn’t the police have been brought up to that level in the past seven months? Isn’t it possible to do that within these seven months?

The same can be said about the public administration and the election commission. What does reform mean in these contexts? Reform certainly implies a complete overhaul. On the other hand, police could work in a somewhat proactive way, instead of being fully proactive. It seems that those in power right now are not able to think about getting the necessary work done in this manner. That’s why, even after a month of taking office as chief adviser, whatever reforms (?) have been made are being mentioned, but just the other day, he said that reforms hadn’t even started yet.

Has the country paused a bit due to the sudden talk of delaying the election? I think so. After the student-people's struggle against Sheikh Hasina’s heartless fascist rule, which led to victory, the people of this country, even political parties, have respect and sympathy for the students. People are observing the political party formed by the students with great attention, and that’s only normal.

Political parties, of course, will view this new political party as competition. They are carefully analysing the behaviour and statements of this newly formed party from the very beginning, and will continue to do so. It is no secret that chief adviser professor Muhammad Yunus has special feelings for this party and its organisers. They believe that the chief adviser listens especially to them, and they also think the government might provide them with political advantages.

For example, they might need more time to form their party, which could be a reason for the government to delay the election agenda. This might explain why the election has shifted from December to June. If necessary, it could be delayed even further.

The politics of the coming days, therefore, demand deeper observation.

* Mahmudur Rahman Manna is the president of Nagorik Oikya

** This column appeared in the print edition of Prothom Alo and has been rewritten for the English edition by Rabiul Islam​

 

[Saif]

Want CA to announce roadmap for nat'l election: Salahuddin

The BNP leader went on to say, '....while we may not all agree on some proposals, we believe that the majority of the proposals will gain consensus among most of the people of Bangladesh.'

www.thedailystar.net

Want CA to announce roadmap for nat'l election: Salahuddin

File photo

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed wants the chief adviser to announce a clear roadmap for the parliamentary election in line with public demand.

"The aspiration of the July uprising was to establish a democratic state by freeing the country from autocracy. Discussions on reforms and dialogues will continue, but we need to make a decision regarding the national elections. For that, we need a roadmap," Salahuddin said at an iftar event organised by Gono Odhikar Parishad today.

Addressing the ongoing debate on whether the local or national election should be held first, Salahuddin said, "We have presented our proposals and opinions to the government, the chief adviser, and the people."

He said that reaching consensus on reform proposals and their implementation involve short, mid, and long-term phases; preparations for the national elections must go ahead.

"The Election Commission, responsible for conducting the national polls, is nearly ready. Based on their statements, they are working towards holding the election in December."

The BNP leader went on to say, "....while we may not all agree on some proposals, we believe that the majority of the proposals will gain consensus among most of the people of Bangladesh."

"We have received both hard and soft copies of the reform commissions' proposals. We have analysed them and will soon submit our report to the National Consensus Commission, following which discussions will continue," he added.​

 

[Saif]

Election likely in December if reforms package is short, or by June for larger package

Visiting United Nations (UN) Secretary General Antonio Guterres has expressed his full support for the reform process initiated by Bangladesh's Interim Government and voiced concern for declining humanitarian aid for more than a million Rohingya refugees living in the country's southeast.

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Guterres-Yunus meeting

Election likely in December if reforms package is short, or by June for larger package
BSS
Dhaka
Updated: 14 Mar 2025, 20: 50

Visiting United Nations (UN) Secretary General Antonio Guterres has expressed his full support for the reform process initiated by Bangladesh's Interim Government and voiced concern for declining humanitarian aid for more than a million Rohingya refugees living in the country's southeast.

The UN Secretary General, who arrived here on a four- day visit on Thursday, reaffirmed the UN's commitment for Bangladesh's reform agenda and voiced his concern for "one of the most discriminated peoples" in the world during a meeting with Bangladesh Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at his Tejgaon office in the capital.

"I want to express our total commitment to the reform process. We are here to support your reforms. We wish you all the best. Whatever we can do, let us know," the UN Secretary General told Professor Yunus during his hour-long meeting.

He hoped the reforms would lead to a free and fair election and a "real transformation" of the country. "I know the process of reforms can be complex," he said.

Guterres said he was also here to express solidarity with Myanmar's forcibly displaced Rohingya people during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

"I've never seen a population so discriminated against. The international community is forgetting the Rohingya," the UN Secretary General said as he voiced his deep concern over declining humanitarian aid for the 1.2 million Rohingya refugees who live in camps in Bangladesh's Cox's Bazar district.

"(Aid) cuts are a crime," he said, adding that Western nations were now doubling up on defense spending while humanitarian aid is squeezed across the globe.

Guterres also expressed the UN's "enormous gratitude" to Bangladesh for hosting the Rohingya refugees. "Bangladesh has been extremely generous to the Rohingya people."

"Rohingyas are a special case for me," he added.

Professor Yunus thanked the UN Secretary General for visiting the country at such a crucial time.

"You couldn't come at a better time. Your visit is timely not only for the Rohingya people but also for Bangladesh," he said.

The Chief Adviser briefed Guterres about the reform process, saying about 10 political parties have already submitted their responses to the reports of the six reform commissions constituted by the interim government.

Professor Yunus said once the parties agreed to the recommendations of the six commissions, they would sign a July Charter, which would be the blueprint for country's democratic transition and implementation of the political, judicial, electoral, administrative, anti-corruption and police reforms.

He said election could be held in December provided the political parties agreed to "a short package" of reforms, but it will be held by June next year if the parties settled for "a larger package" of reforms.

The Chief Adviser reaffirmed his commitment to holding "free, fair and participatory elections."

Prof Yunus sought the support of the UN Secretary General for the dignified return of the Rohingyas to their homeland in the western Rakhine state in Myanmar and in the meantime mobilising adequate food and humanitarian assistance for the 1.2 million refugees.

"We are trying to raise attention of the plight of the Rohingya people. The world should know how they are suffering. There is a feeling frustration," he said.

The UN Secretary General said he would do his best to resolve the Rohingya crisis and would try to mobilize support for them, giving priority to the Rohingyas.

Guterres lauded the contribution of the Bangladesh peacekeeping forces in maintaining peace and stability in some of the troubled corners of the world.

"Bangladesh peace keeping forces are very important for us," the UN Secretary General said, adding their engagements have been "extraordinary", and "added that Bangladesh acts in the frontline for a fairer world."

Professor Yunus also praised the Bangladesh peace keepers, saying Bangladesh military gets unique exposure in these assignments. "The deployments mean a lot to us," he said.

Geopolitics and the status of SAARC and Bangladesh's relationships with neighbours were also featured in the talks, with Professor Yunus highlighting his efforts to revive the South Asian regional forum.

He said Bangladesh also wants to become a member of the ASEAN in an effort to boost trade and investment with the Southeast Asian nations.

The Chief Adviser also highlighted his proposal to create a South Asia grid involving Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan and India to tap and import huge hydropower from the Himalayan nations.

He said Bangladesh was building a series of ports in the country's Chittagong region in a bid to transform the country into "an economic hub", connecting Bangladesh with the landlocked countries of Nepal and Bhutan and India's Northeastern region.

Prof Yunus said the interim government has been fully supported by almost every country in the world, including the United States, European Union, China and Japan.

About the state of the economy, the Chief Adviser said his government has inherited a ruined economy with a broken banking sector, dwindling reserves and destroyed institutions.

"The economy has now been solidified. Exports have been growing for months. Foreign exchange reserves are also better," he said.

Prof Yunus said Bangladesh economy has made a turnaround to an extent that the interim government has now decided the country would make graduation from LDC nation next year (2026).

"We are taking full preparations for LDC graduation," he said.

The Chief Adviser also outlined his government's efforts to bring back tens of billions of dollars stolen by the leadership and cronies of the previous government. Some $234 billion dollars have been siphoned off during the 16-year-long dictatorship, he said.

"We are trying to get back the money. But this is a complex and lengthy process," he added.

The Secretary General said that it all reminded him of his time during the revolutionary days in 1974 in Portugal.

Prof Yunus also thanked the High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk for the work of the UN fact-finding mission, which documented atrocities and potential crimes against humanity committed by the Sheikh Hasina government.

"He did a fantastic work. They documented the crimes just right after the atrocities were committed. Let them come back again and do more work," he said.

Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain, High Representative of the Chief Adviser, Dr. Khalilur Rahman and Senior Secretary Lamiya Morshed were present during the meeting.

UN Under Secretary General Rabab Fatima and UN Resident Coordinator to Bangladesh Gwyn Lewis also attended the meeting.​

 

[Saif]

Election should be held after finishing reforms quickly, BNP tells Guterres

BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir told this to the journalists after a meeting with the UN secretary general

en.prothomalo.com

Election should be held after finishing reforms quickly, BNP tells Guterres
Staff Correspondent
Dhaka
Published: 15 Mar 2025, 22: 13

BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir speaks to journalists after a meeting with the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres in Dhaka on 15 March 2025.Suvra Kanti Das

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) informed the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres that the party was the first to speak about reforms.

BNP also told the UN chief that the national election should be held after carrying out electoral reforms as soon as possible.

BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir told this to the journalists after a meeting with the UN secretary general at the Hotel InterContinental in Dhaka on Saturday.

Replying to queries on the conversation with the UN chief, the BNP secretary general said, “A roundtable was organised by the UN where chiefs of the reform commissions were present. At the event, the UN chief was mainly informed about the ongoing discussions on reforms.”

Mirza Fakhrul Islam said, “We have informed the UN chief about the issues that we have been saying this long. Reform must happen. We have talked about reform previously and that reform must be carried out as soon as possible. We have said that electoral reforms should be completed speedily and then elections should be held quickly. After that, the remaining issues can be completed by parliament. Reform is a continuous process. We have spoken about these issues.”

Replying to a query on the UN chief’s response to the BNP’s issues, Mirza Fakhrul said António Guterres made no comment.

Replying to another query whether there was any discussion on timeframe for election, Mirza Fakhrul said, “We have talked to the reform commission and we are in touch with them. We gave everything that they wanted. We are already holding a meeting with them. So, why would we give a timeframe to the UN chief?”

BNP standing committee member Salahuddin Ahmed also joined the meeting.

Replying to a question on election, Salahuddin Ahmed said, “The UN said it is an internal issue of Bangladesh and you sit together and fix what reforms you will carry out. The UN chief expected a strong democratic government would be in power in Bangladesh, and the next election will set a precedent in the world.”​

 

[Saif]

BNP to say ‘no’ to reforms that could delay elections

BNP is yet to give its opinion to the National Consensus Commission on important recommendations placed by five reform commissions. The party is preparing its reply based on a principle that ‘elected government will reform the state’

en.prothomalo.com

BNP to say ‘no’ to reforms that could delay elections

The party’s standing committee meeting was held on Sunday, presided over by the acting chairman Tarique Rahman. The party's proposal on the recommendations of the five reform commissions, including the constitution and election commission, sent by the consensus commission, was finalised at the meeting
Selim Zahid
Dhaka
Updated: 19 Mar 2025, 14: 21

BNP flagProthom Alo illustration

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is yet to give its opinion to the National Consensus Commission on important recommendations placed by five reform commissions. The party is preparing its reply based on a principle that the “elected government will reform the state”.

Sources said BNP will not have much objection to fundamental reforms of public administration, judiciary and anti-corruption commission. But the party will not agree to fundamental reforms to the constitution on the ground that it might delay the election.

The consensus commission sent letters and “spreadsheets” to 37 political parties on 6 March seeking their opinions on 166 important recommendations placed by reform commissions on constitution, electoral system, public administration, ACC and judiciary.

The parties have been asked to provide feedback on three options - “Agree”, “Disagree”, and “Partially Agree” - within 13 March.

A total of 15 parties gave their opinions till Tuesday and others sought time. A total of 14 political parties including the BNP, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and National Citizen Party (NCP) informed the consensus commission that they will provide their opinions within the next few days.

BNP will hold a press conference upon submitting the report to the commission. The party will detail its stance on reform in the press briefing.

Sources said BNP has prepared its opinion on recommendations of five reform commissions based on its 31-point state reform proposal unveiled in 2023.

An effort is ongoing to ensure opinions from BNP and its alliance partners of the past simultaneous movement remain similar. BNP is continuing discussion with these parties to this end.

The party wants to give a message of greater political consensus through the process.

The spreadsheet provided by the National Consensus Commission did mention some issues in detail. Therefore, we will try to provide a detailed report alongside the spreadsheet to avoid any confusion.

BNP standing committee member Salahuddin Ahmed.

Three parties of simultaneous movement have already placed their opinions to the consensus commission. BNP and other parties are likely to submit their opinions next week.

Sources from BNP said that the leaders of the party’s policy-making level have held several meetings in the past few days to finalise the their position on the opinion on the consensus commission.

The party’s standing committee meeting was held on Sunday, presided over by the acting chairman Tarique Rahman. The party's proposal on the recommendations of the five reform commissions, including the constitution and election commission, sent by the consensus commission, was finalised at the meeting.

The source further said that the BNP will agree with most of the proposals for constitutional reform. However, in this case, the party's policymakers believe that the jurisdiction for constitutional reform lies with the elected parliament. The elected parliament will bring the necessary reforms to the constitution.

Apart from this, the BNP will emphasise the proposals for electoral and administrative reforms. BNP leaders consider constitutional and electoral system reforms important to create an environment conducive for a free, fair and neutral election.

The party leaders believe that the previous fascist Awami League government amended the constitution at will to consolidate its stay in power. It made the electoral system completely partisan. Therefore, necessary reforms to the constitution and electoral system are necessary for a free and fair election.

For this reason, BNP will express its views on the exigency of reforms in the constitution and electoral system.

Apart from allies, BNP has also consulted with experts of relevant fields to prepare its formal opinion.

Ganosamhati Andolon, a partner of BNP’s simultaneous movement, will submit its report to the consensus commission within a day or two.

Zonayed Saki, the chief coordinator of the party, told Prothom Alo that his party will give notes on the issues which require explanation.

Saki thinks that the issues on which the consensus commission will reach an accord will be accepted as a “national charter”. And those on which there will be disagreements will remain as a desire to create more public opinion.

Some stances of BNP

Talking to some BNP leaders, it has been learned that the party has already rejected the reform ideas of “Second Republic” and “Constituent Assembly elections”.

BNP does not agree with the proportional representation system and the provincial government formula either. The party is not in favour of simultaneous national and local government elections during the term of the caretaker or interim government.

The party is even against local government elections before the parliamentary elections.

BNP will also raise an objection to reducing the minimum age to contest parliamentary elections to 21 years. It will propose that the same person will not be the Prime Minister more than twice in a row.

Apart from this, there will also be a proposal for a balance of power between the Prime Minister and the President.

BNP will disagree on the provision that an interim government will remain in charge after expiry of parliament or till the oath of next elected government after the parliament is dissolved.

However, the party will agree on a 90-day interim government during the election. BNP will also give opinion in favour of making a law to ensure accountability and clarify appointment, responsibility, jurisdiction and conflict of interest of the EC.

Speaking about those, BNP standing committee member Salahuddin Ahmed told Prothom Alo, “The spreadsheet provided by the National Consensus Commission did mention some issues in detail. Therefore, we will try to provide a detailed report alongside the spreadsheet to avoid any confusion.”

Sources said the BNP’s opinion on the reform proposals is ready and will be submitted soon after consultation with the alliance partners.

However, Salahuddin Ahemd also voiced concerns over some remarks of some members of the commission.

“Some remarks made by some members of the consensus commission give indication of something different. We hope they remain cautious so that no question arises regarding the commission’s neutrality,” Salahuddin added.​

 

[Saif]

December cut-off time for next election: Amir Khasru

BNP senior leader Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has said the country will be on the right track if the next election is held by December this year, as it is the cut-off time for the parliamentary polls.

en.prothomalo.com

December cut-off time for next election: Amir Khasru
UNB
Published: 20 Mar 2025, 22: 32

Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury File Photo

BNP senior leader Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has said the country will be on the right track if the next election is held by December this year, as it is the cut-off time for the parliamentary polls.

"Everyone assumes that there is no scope to delay the election beyond December. Many have already considered that December is too late. But, December is still widely regarded as the 'cut-off time’. The general consensus is that if the election is held by December, we will be on the right path," he said.

The BNP leader made the remarks while briefing reporters on the outcome of a meeting between European Union (EU) Ambassador Michael Miller and BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Thursday.

The around one-hour meeting, held at the BNP Chairperson’s Gulshan office, covered a range of topics related to Bangladesh’s upcoming elections, reforms, and bilateral issues.

Khasru, a BNP standing committee member, said restoring democracy in Bangladesh is vital. “We have fought for 17 years to return the ownership to the people. The only way to restore it is through an election.”

He said they had an in-depth discussion on the overall political and economic situation in Bangladesh, along with bilateral matters.

Khasru said they also discussed Bangladesh’s upcoming general election, ongoing reform initiatives, and the restoration of democratic processes.

The BNP leader said the EU is eager to assist Bangladesh in strengthening the electoral process and various institutions through reforms.

"We informed the ambassador that reform issues on which there is consensus will be taken forward. As for the issues on which there is no agreement—whether constitutional, electoral, or any other matter—every political party has the right to present them to the people in the upcoming election. Then, there will be discussions, debates, and arguments in Parliament before a decision are made," he said.

Khasru said both domestically and internationally, everyone is focused on when the election will take place and when democratic order will return to the country.

“There is a government in the country, but democratic order has not yet been restored. No administration, supported by the police or any other force, can stand without an elected government with the support of the people," he said.

The BNP leader said working with an elected government will benefit everyone and the foreign partners prefer to engage with an elected administration.

“Many problems will be resolved if a government supported by the people and a parliament accountable to the people can be established as soon as possible. Many issues are difficult to resolve without political will. This issue has been discussed with importance in our discussions," he said.

Stating that the highest exports of Bangladesh go to the EU, the BNP leader mentioned that they also discussed their future approach with the EU.

In response to a question, Khasru said their party will submit its views on key reform recommendations to the National Consensus Commission on Sunday.​

 

[Saif]

Govt to hold elections on schedule, no way to delay the vote: CA Yunus

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Thursday said Bangladesh's interim government is committed to holding elections on schedule, refusing to delay the vote for any demands. Speaking with a delegation from the International Crisis Group led by Dr. Comfort Ero, Professor Yunus confirmed t

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Govt to hold elections on schedule, no way to delay the vote: CA Yunus
UNB
Published :
Mar 20, 2025 22:30
Updated :
Mar 20, 2025 22:30

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Thursday said Bangladesh's interim government is committed to holding elections on schedule, refusing to delay the vote for any demands.

Speaking with a delegation from the International Crisis Group led by Dr. Comfort Ero, Professor Yunus confirmed that the government has set two possible timelines for the elections. He assured the group the dates would not change.

Yunus explained that if political parties seek a limited number of reforms prior to elections, then the elections will be held in December. If a larger reform package is desired, then elections will take place by June next year.

"We have no reason to change the election dates," he added, emphasising that the upcoming elections will be free and fair.

Regarding the Awami League, Yunus stated that the interim Government has no plan to ban the party, but individuals within its leadership accused of crimes, including murder and crimes against humanity, will be tried in Bangladesh's courts.

He also said the government has not ruled out referring Awami League leaders to the International Criminal Court in The Hague following a UN fact-finding mission that reported potential crimes during the July uprising. "It is very much on the table," Prof Yunus said.

The chief adviser also shared that the Consensus Building Commission began talks with political parties on Thursday. He said there are plans to finalise and sign the July Charter, which will guide the government's policies.

The International Crisis Group officials praised the arrest of Rohingya insurgent leader Ataullah this week, calling it a sign of the Interim government's commitment to peace and stability in the refugee camps.

They also emphasised the need for increased engagement with the Arakan Army, which controls much of Rakhine State in Myanmar.

Prof Yunus noted that Dhaka is working to mobilise aid for Rohingya refugees and hopes the upcoming special UN conference on the Rohingya crisis will draw global attention to the issue.

Dr Comfort Ero expressed her group's support for Bangladesh in countering misinformation targeting the country and its Interim government.

Yunus concluded by expressing Bangladesh's desire for strong relations with India, though he lamented that much of the misinformation campaign against Bangladesh has originated from Indian media.​