Head of Interim Government Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus said that Awami League would not be able to take part in the polls as its activities have been suspended under the country’s anti-terrorism laws and the Election Commission (EC) has subsequently removed the party from the official list of registered political parties.
The statement was recorded in a press release issued by the CA's Press Wing on Friday after CA's meeting with British Minister for International Development Baroness Jenny Chapman at the State Guest House Jamuna here on Thursday evening.
National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman, SDG Coordinator Lamiya Morshed and British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke were present there.
The press release said that the two leaders covered a wide range of issues -- including the February general election, tackling illegal migration, boosting trade, the Rohingya crisis and enhancing cooperation in the aviation and maritime sectors -- during their meeting.
Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to ensuring that the upcoming National Parliament Election would be free, fair and inclusive. "The election will be held on schedule in the first half of February," he said, emphasizing that it would be an inclusive and participatory one.
He added that tens of millions of young people are expected to cast their first ballots, as they had no opportunity to vote during the three rigged general elections over the 16-year-long autocracy.
He also added that the July Charter would mark “a new beginning” for Bangladesh, reflecting the aspirations of millions who took part in the historic July–August uprising last year.
Minister Chapman expressed concern about the abuse of the UK asylum system by migrants from several countries, including Bangladesh, and stressed the importance of safe and legal migration while curbing exploitation.
Professor Yunus agreed, emphasizing that his government is committed to ensuring safe migration and encouraging more Bangladeshis to seek employment abroad through legal channels.
The two leaders also discussed the Rohingya crisis and the need for continued humanitarian support for more than a million refugees living in camps in Bangladesh.
The meeting also highlighted opportunities to boost trade and cooperation between Dhaka and London. The Chief Adviser noted that Bangladesh is purchasing a British research vessel to conduct maritime studies in the Bay of Bengal.
Minister Chapman called for stronger aviation ties between the two nations, adding that the head of Airbus International is expected to visit Bangladesh soon.
