Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has said the defeated forces of fascist terrorists will be completely thwarted and that no one will be able to halt the country’s democratic progress through intimidation, terrorism or bloodshed.
In his Victory Day address to the nation on Tuesday, he described the recent attack on Inqilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi as an assault on the very existence of Bangladesh and its democratic journey.
“Those involved in this conspiracy, wherever they may be, none of them will be spared,” he said.
Yunus assured that the fascist forces will never again return to this country.
Describing the upcoming 13th parliamentary election and referendum as a historic moment to determine Bangladesh’s future course, the chief adviser called on the people to protect the vote and safeguard the country.
“The future of all of us, including mine, depends on the vote. Vote for the right people and secure the future of the nation,” he said during the televised address.
The chief adviser also highlighted BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia’s unwavering commitment to Bangladesh’s independence, sovereignty and democracy.
“Khaleda Zia is an inseparable part of an important chapter in Bangladesh’s history,” he said.
BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia has been in critical condition at Evercare Hospital since late November.
Seeking cooperation from political parties to create a conducive environment for the election, Yunus pledged to take all necessary measures to ensure the polls are truly festive, participatory, peaceful and, above all, fair.
“Consider one another as competitors, never as enemies,” he said.
In his 20-minute address, he said the interim government has given the highest priority to three issues—justice for the July–August killings, essential structural reforms of the state apparatus to transition to an accountable and effective democratic system, and the holding of a fair election.
“What kind of state we aspire to will depend on the outcome of the referendum. Through this vote, the character, structure and trajectory of progress of the new Bangladesh will be decided,” he said.
Recalling the experience of elections during the previous Awami League government, the chief adviser said those who loot ballot boxes are robbers of the people’s freedom and enemies of the citizens.
Referring to several changes made in the field administration and police administration ahead of the election, Yunus said the measures were not motivated by favouritism or animosity towards anyone.
“Our sole objective is to ensure that every voter in the country can cast their vote in a safe environment, free from fear and with the highest degree of freedom,” he said.
