Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus commented that the second phase of the interim government has started today, and its first and main task is to organize a fair election.
These remarks were made by Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus during his opening speech at an adviser council meeting at the secretariat on Thursday (August 7). After the meeting, the Chief Adviser's Press Secretary, Mohammad Shafiqul Alam, informed reporters of the details.
This was the second meeting of the council at the secretariat since the interim government took office. The meeting started at 10:30 AM in the cabinet room and concluded at noon, with Chief Adviser Dr. Yunus presiding.
The Press Secretary said that many issues were discussed today. In his opening remarks, the Chief Adviser stated that the first phase of the interim government ended on August 5, and the second phase begins today. To that end, the Chief Adviser's office instructed the Election Commission yesterday to prepare for an election before Ramadan in February.
Shafiqul Alam said the Chief Adviser announced that the second phase's primary focus is to hold a fair election. "Our entire focus is now on the election. It will be held in a festive atmosphere," he said. He added that two other tasks are on the agenda: reform and trials.
When asked if an election date was discussed, the Press Secretary replied that the Election Commission handles the date, but they will announce a date after considering the timeline provided by the interim government. He noted that this is the Commission's responsibility.
Regarding the appointment of superintendents of police and officers-in-charge through a lottery to avoid controversy, and what decision was made about deputy commissioner appointments, he said discussions are still ongoing, and a final decision has not been reached. He added that the main focus remains on ensuring a fair, neutral, and festive election.
When asked about the administration's role, Shafiqul Alam said numerous meetings are being held to determine how to achieve this goal. In the last month, the Chief Adviser held two meetings with security and law enforcement agencies. Discussions included deploying more members of the Ansar, police, and armed forces. While it was previously thought that around 800,000 personnel could be deployed, they are now considering if an additional 50,000 can be used. Previously, the army had suggested deploying 60,000 members, but now they are reviewing how many more can be utilized.
When asked if the Awami League and the 14-party alliance would be allowed to participate in the upcoming election, the Press Secretary stated that this is a question for the Election Commission. He added that the government has banned all activities of the Awami League until the trials of their leaders are complete.
Asked about whether enough trust has been built among political parties, he said that most political parties have welcomed the Chief Adviser's announcement of an election in February before Ramadan. He mentioned that discussions have been held with the parties and will continue, expressing confidence that there will be a very good election.
Finally, when asked if there would be a level playing field, Shafiqul Alam said he believes the election in February will be fair and festive. "We will all vote with joy," he said, adding that no one would have any complaints.
