Yunus orders armed forces on maximum alert to ensure proper vote

He says the combined referendum and parliamentary polls carry far greater significance than ever before for the nation’s democratic future

Calling the February elections and the referendum a “critical turning point” for Bangladesh’s democratic future, Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus has directed the armed forces to remain on maximum alert to ensure that the vote is free, fair and acceptable.

On Monday, he said a capable, professional, neutral and people-oriented armed forces will play the “highest supportive role” in the elections.

“All field-level decisions in conducting the election must be lawful, restrained and responsible. There must be the highest vigilance so that even the slightest deviation does not undermine public trust.”

Yunus spoke at a meeting with senior armed forces officers at Army Headquarters.

He said, “At this sensitive time, the role of the Bangladesh Armed Forces is extremely important... As a symbol of public trust, the armed forces, as in the past, are expected to carry out their duties with professionalism, neutrality and responsibility.

“The referendum and the parliamentary election are extremely significant for Bangladesh’s future democratic transition.

“A nation long deprived of its voting rights expressed its aspirations through the July Uprising, and voting in this election will be the ultimate expression of that.”

He added, “Through the referendum, people will express their views on the future state system, and through the parliamentary election, they will choose worthy representatives to implement that will. Therefore, the importance of this election is greater than at any time in the past.”