Chief Adviser of the interim government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, has declared that the 13th National Parliamentary Election marks the beginning of a new journey for Bangladesh's democratic system.
In a farewell address to the nation on Monday (February 16) before stepping down from office, the Chief Adviser reflected on the transition of power and the successful execution of his government’s mandate.
A Historic Milestone
Professor Yunus noted that after 18 years, the country successfully held a national election alongside a referendum on the "July Charter"—a consensus-based document for comprehensive constitutional change.
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"The festive atmosphere during this election across the country felt like Eid, a moment that will remain etched in our history," he said.
Congratulating all participants, he added, "I congratulate those who won in this competitive race, as well as those who did not. Winning and losing is the beauty of democracy. The winners secured nearly half the total votes, while those who were unsuccessful also garnered nearly half. Those who did not win should take comfort in knowing that almost half the voters placed their trust in you."
Reflecting on the 18-Month Mandate
The interim government’s 18-month tenure concludes as the new administration prepares to take office. Dr. Yunus recalled the state of the nation in July 2024, following an unprecedented uprising.
"At that time, the country was plunged into a deep political, economic, institutional, and humanitarian crisis. People had lost faith in the state machinery, democracy was shattered, and the future was uncertain," he remarked. "I was called upon with a single goal: to return Bangladesh to normalcy through three primary responsibilities—reform, justice, and elections."
He emphasized that he and his colleagues remained committed to those promises.
Institutional Reform and the 'New Bangladesh'
The Chief Adviser highlighted the administrative, commercial, and financial reforms initiated to ensure that no future government can position itself against the will of the people.
"This election is not just a process of transferring power; it is the start of a new odyssey for Bangladesh’s democratic system—the birth of a New Bangladesh," he stated. He paid deep tribute to the youth, the protesters of July, and the martyrs whose sacrifices made this change possible.
A Smooth Transition
Dr. Yunus extended his gratitude to the political parties, the Election Commission, law enforcement, the armed forces, and civil servants for their professional cooperation.
The interim government was formed on August 8, 2024, three days after the fall of the Awami League government on August 5. After 18 months in power, the 13th National Parliamentary Election and the referendum were held last Thursday (February 12).
The interim government’s term officially ends with the swearing-in ceremony of the newly elected Members of Parliament and the new cabinet, scheduled for Tuesday.
