‘History has given us a new opportunity’: Yunus on elections and referendum

“Your main responsibility is to organise a peaceful and joyful election,” he advises new UNOs

Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus has urged officials to ensure the upcoming national election is organised beautifully and fairly, calling it a historic opportunity to build a new Bangladesh.

Yunus made the remarks while giving directions on election preparations to Upazila executive administrators (also known as Upazila Nirbahi officers, or UNOs) from across the country through a video conference at the State Guest House Jamuna, his office said in a press release.

According to the press statement, all district commissioners, divisional commissioners, and cabinet department officials joined the conference online.

“History has given us a new opportunity. Another generation will not get this chance,” Yunus told the UNOs.

“If we can utilise this opportunity, we will be able to build a new Bangladesh. If we cannot, the nation will be in trouble.”

The chief advisor pointed out that elections held in the past were marred by irregularities and fraud.

“The upcoming elections are not like other responsibilities; they are a historic responsibility. If we fulfil it well, the next election day will be historic for the people as well,” he said.

Yunus emphasised that the role of officials is crucial.

“Only if you fulfil your responsibilities properly will the government be able to fulfil its responsibilities successfully,” he told the UNOs.

He has also highlighted the importance of both the elections and the upcoming referendum, saying: “Elections are for the next five years, and the referendum is for a hundred years. Through the referendum, we can permanently change Bangladesh and lay the foundation for the new Bangladesh we want to create.”

Advising the newly joined UNOs, he said, “Your main responsibility is to organise a peaceful and joyful election.”

He has urged them to visit all polling stations in their areas, consult with local communities, party representatives, and colleagues, and prepare for a smooth election.

Stressing the need to make voters aware of the referendum, Yunus said: “Voters need to be convinced to make up their mind -- whether you will vote ‘Yes’ or ‘No’.”

He compared officials to midwives, noting that “if the midwives are good, the babies born are also good.”

He instructed them to handle situations creatively and prevent misinformation and rumours.

The chief advisor also emphasised women’s participation in the elections, saying it must be ensured that women can come to polling stations safely.

Regarding the election schedule, Yunus has told the UNOs, “Plan and prepare now for when, how, and what work you will do until the election is over.”