Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus assured the nation on Tuesday that all preparations have been finalised for the 13th National Parliamentary Election and the concurrent referendum, which are scheduled for 12 February next year.
He made the remarks during a televised Victory Day address.
Yunus stated, “The Election Commission has announced the election schedule, confirming that both the national election and the referendum will be held on 12 February. All necessary preparations are complete, and the government is providing its full cooperation to the Commission.”
Describing the election and referendum as a historic moment that will determine Bangladesh’s future direction, the chief adviser said the vote would decide the character, structure, and course of progress for a new Bangladesh.
Yunus emphasised that the government wants the election to be festive, participatory, peaceful, and above all, fair.
He noted that security arrangements, administrative preparations, technological support, and every stage of monitoring were being treated with the utmost importance, adding that the government is committed to taking all necessary measures to ensure a credible election.
Speaking about the act of voting, he said the responsibility of building a new Bangladesh lies with everyone.
Yunus explained that people’s votes will determine the future of the state, and that voting should not be seen merely as stamping a ballot paper, but as active participation in building a new nation, exercising democratic rights, and making a direct contribution to the country’s progress.
He added that the ownership of the country rests in the hands of its people, and a vote is the signature of that ownership. He also stressed that the role of political leadership is crucial in preserving the credibility and sanctity of the election.
Yunus urged political parties to view one another as competitors, not enemies, and to help create a fair, acceptable, and peaceful electoral environment so that public confidence in the democratic process can grow.
