No Foreign Meddling in February 2026 Polls: Dr Yunus

File Photo: Prof Muhammad Yunus

Chief Adviser (CA) Prof Muhammad Yunus has reassured the nation that the upcoming national election, scheduled for February 2026, will be conducted in a peaceful, festive, and transparent manner, free from any external interference.

“This will be a unique election. It is not the election of the interim government—it is the election of every citizen of Bangladesh and of all political parties,” Prof Yunus said on Tuesday evening, according to his Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam.

He stressed that the polls will truly reflect the will of the people, adding that the interim administration is determined to ensure that no foreign power or external force can influence the process. “There will be no scope for any other country to play a hand in this election,” he affirmed.

Dialogue with political parties

Prof Yunus made the remarks after holding discussions with leaders of several political parties and socio-political groups at the state guest house Jamuna. Participants included representatives from the AB Party, Nagorik Oikya, Gana Sanghati Andolan, Gono Odhikar Parishad, Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), Islami Andolan Bangladesh, Jatiya Gano Front, and Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh. The Chief Adviser’s deputies, including Abul Kalam Azad Majumder, were also present.

During the meeting, he emphasised inclusivity, dialogue, and cooperation as key elements for ensuring an election in which all citizens and parties feel represented.

Assurance of voting rights

The Chief Adviser reiterated that the election will be held in the first half of February in a festive atmosphere, particularly for the youth and first-time voters. “Everyone will cast their votes, and no one will be able to say they were not allowed,” he assured.

Prof Yunus underlined the importance of creating a positive environment for young voters who were denied the chance to participate in the last three elections. Ensuring their rights, he said, will strengthen public confidence in democracy and reinforce Bangladesh’s democratic journey.

Challenges ahead

Acknowledging that certain groups remain opposed to the interim government’s electoral roadmap, Prof Yunus warned of attempts to create hurdles. “Some such signs are already visible. More issues may arise. We must remain more careful. But we will hold the polls in February and hand over power to an elected government,” he said firmly.

Message of harmony

Turning to the upcoming Durga Puja festivities, Prof Yunus urged citizens to celebrate peacefully and maintain communal harmony. He called for vigilance to ensure that the celebrations reflect Bangladesh’s spirit of inclusiveness and unity.

The Chief Adviser concluded by emphasising that the February 2026 election will mark a turning point for the country—an opportunity to shape the future on the basis of popular will, national independence, and democratic participation.