Top level of the government confirmed that the upcoming national election will be held on time, with the election date set to be announced within days.
Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs Adviser Dr. Asif Nazrul and Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam both reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to holding a fair, festive, and timely poll, urging citizens to remain patient as final preparations continue.
Dr. Asif Nazrul, speaking at a press conference on reforms and current affairs at the Secretariat on Thursday said: Just wait a few days; you will hear the announcement soon.
He assured that this time all eligible citizens would be able to vote, addressing concerns about past elections where many were disenfranchised.
“Of course, everyone will be able to vote. We are taking every possible initiative. For years, most people couldn’t vote, but that pain will now end. We haven’t been able to vote properly for 18 years,” he said.
He also criticised the perception that the 2008 caretaker government election was beyond scrutiny, saying, “Even the 2008 election had room for questioning. Journalists should investigate– many disturbing facts exist about that election.”
Dr. Nazrul emphasised that while the Election Commission would oversee the electoral process, the government’s “intention is clear” to deliver “the best election in Bangladesh’s history,” echoing the vision repeatedly stated by the Chief Adviser.
Separately, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam reinforced that there would be no delay in holding the election.
Speaking at the “BSRF Dialogue,” organised by the Bangladesh Secretariat Reporters Forum (BSRF) at the Secretariat Media Centre, he described the next five to six days as “crucial” for ensuring a smooth electoral process.
“There will not be even a single day’s delay. The election will be held exactly as Professor Yunus announced. We are hopeful it will be festive and fair,” Alam said.
He noted that Professor Yunus had initially indicated April for the polls, later revising it to February if reforms advanced– “and we are still in that position,” he confirmed.
Acknowledging that some violence tends to accompany elections, he added, “We are making every effort to reduce it to zero.” He reiterated the government’s readiness and determination to hold a credible and internationally acceptable election.
