Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has urged all Upazila Nirbahi Officers (UNOs) to make the upcoming election a historic and memorable event. He described the vote as a rare opportunity to build a new Bangladesh after the mass uprising.
Yunus spoke during a video conference from the Jamuna, State Guest House on Wednesday. All district commissioners, divisional commissioners, and officials from the Cabinet Division joined the session online.
“History has given us a unique chance. Future generations will not get this opportunity,” he said. “If we use it well, we can build a new Bangladesh. If not, the nation will stumble.”
He added that previous elections in Bangladesh had been marred by fraud and irregularities. “The upcoming vote is not like any other responsibility. It is a historic duty. If we perform it well, the election day itself will be remembered by the people.”
Yunus instructed UNOs to carry out their duties diligently to ensure the government can successfully manage the election. He stressed that both the election and the referendum are vital for the nation: the election sets the five-year political course, while the referendum shapes the country’s future for a century.
“The referendum can permanently transform Bangladesh. It can lay the foundation for the new Bangladesh we aim to create,” he said.
He advised recently appointed UNOs to ensure a peaceful and joyful election. Officers should inspect all polling stations in their areas, consult local communities, and coordinate with colleagues to prepare for a smooth process.
Chief Adviser also emphasised voter awareness. “People must decide in advance whether to vote ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ and cast their votes accordingly,” he said.
Comparing election officials to midwives, he added “If the midwife is skilled, the child will be healthy. Likewise, the quality of administration shapes the election.”
He instructed officials to act creatively in all situations and take measures to prevent misinformation and rumours. He also highlighted women’s participation, saying authorities must ensure female voters can reach polling stations safely.
The Chief Adviser noted that the election schedule will be announced soon. He urged UNOs to plan and prepare their tasks carefully ahead of time to ensure smooth operations.
Senior officials present at the event included Chief Adviser Secretary Md Siraj Uddin Mia, Cabinet Secretary Sheikh Abdur Rashid, Press Secretary Muhammad Shafiqul Alam, and Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Public Administration Md Ehsanul Haque.
