CA rejects rumours, assures swift handover of power after election

Bangladesh's Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Tuesday dismissed rumours that the interim government would cling to power after the upcoming general elections and referendum, assuring that authority would be handed over swiftly to the elected representatives.

“Once the election is completed, the elected government will promptly assume office, and the interim government will conclude its responsibilities,” he said in a televised address to the nation ahead of the 13th National Parliamentary Election and referendum scheduled to be held on 12 February.

The address was broadcast simultaneously on Bangladesh Television (BTV) and Bangladesh Betar.

Prof Yunus said the interim administration was eagerly awaiting the moment of transition.

“We will hand over responsibility to the newly elected government with joy and pride, wishing them every success, and then return to our respective work,” he added.

Rejecting speculation that the interim government would delay the transfer of power, the Chief Adviser described such claims as “completely baseless and deliberately planned rumours” aimed at obstructing the country’s democratic transition.

He warned that vested groups were spreading misinformation to disrupt the peaceful election environment and undermine public confidence.

Urging citizens to remain vigilant, Prof Yunus advised people to verify information through official sources and use the “Election Bondhu” hotline 333 to obtain accurate updates.

The Chief Adviser reiterated his call for citizens to exercise their voting rights fearlessly, both in the general election to choose a new government and in the referendum to shape the country’s future.

He said the government had taken all necessary steps to ensure a free, fair, neutral and peaceful election.

Prof Yunus also urged political parties to issue clear instructions to their leaders and activists at all levels to refrain from violence, intimidation, centre occupation, vote manipulation, provocative activities or rumour-mongering, whether offline or online.

“The state will not tolerate any attempt to create chaos or disrupt the electoral process,” he said.