The Interim Government of Bangladesh, under Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, expresses dedication to timely elections and is resistant to delays. Two electoral timelines have been proposed based on reform requests. The government affirms no ban on the Awami League but will prosecute accused leaders. Support from the International Crisis Group is acknowledged, and efforts continue towards stability and aid for Rohingya refugees.
The Interim Government, led by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, remains committed to holding the elections as scheduled, despite any potential calls for postponement. During a meeting with a delegation from the International Crisis Group, Dr. Comfort Ero at the helm, the Chief Adviser reiterated that two timelines have been established for the elections, which will not be altered. He indicated that should political parties request only limited reforms, the elections will occur in December, whereas a more extensive reform package could delay them until June of the following year.
Professor Yunus further stressed the importance of maintaining the election dates, asserting, “We have no reason to change the election dates,” and pledged that the upcoming elections will be conducted with fairness and transparency. Addressing concerns regarding the Awami League party, he clarified that while the party itself would not face a ban, any members of its leadership implicated in crimes would be prosecuted in domestic courts.
The Chief Adviser mentioned the possibility of referring certain Awami League leaders to the International Criminal Court, contingent on findings from a UN fact-finding mission that raised concerns about actions taken during the July uprising. In discussions related to governance, Professor Yunus announced that the Consensus Building Commission had commenced talks with political entities, aiming to finalize the July Charter that would shape government policies.
International Crisis Group officials acknowledged the recent arrest of Rohingya insurgent leader Ataullah, regarding it as a testament to the Interim Government’s dedication to ensuring peace and stability in refugee camps. They highlighted the necessity for deeper engagement with the Arakan Army, which exerts control over much of Myanmar’s Rakhine State. Professor Yunus also stated the government’s efforts to mobilize assistance for Rohingya refugees and expressed optimism for the upcoming UN conference to draw global focus towards the crisis.
Dr. Comfort Ero reaffirmed her group’s support for Bangladesh amidst the misinformation campaign targeting the Interim Government. Conclusively, the Chief Adviser articulated Bangladesh’s interest in fostering robust relations with India, although he lamented that a significant portion of negative narratives against Bangladesh have emerged from Indian media sources.
In conclusion, the Interim Government, led by Professor Muhammad Yunus, is firmly dedicated to conducting elections on schedule, with considerations for limited versus extensive reforms impacting the timeline. Additionally, while the Awami League remains operational, its implicated leaders may face legal ramifications. The government aims to enhance collaboration with international bodies regarding the Rohingya issue and seeks to maintain positive relations with India, despite challenges posed by misinformation.
Original Source: www.justnewsbd.com
