EC decides who participates in polls, CA tells BBC about AL's participation

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has emphasized that the decision regarding the Awami League's (AL) participation in the upcoming national election lies with the party itself, not with the interim government. Speaking in an interview with BBC at his official residence in Dhaka, Yunus stated, "The Awami League has to decide whether they want to participate; I cannot make that decision for them."

He further clarified that the Election Commission, not the government, determines who is eligible to participate in the elections, underscoring the importance of the Commission's role in ensuring a free and fair process.

On the timing of the elections, Dr. Yunus indicated that they would likely be held between December 2025 and March 2026, contingent on the completion of necessary reforms. "If we can complete the required reforms swiftly, December may be the target. However, if the reforms take longer, we may need a few more months," he explained.

Uncertainty remains regarding whether former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, currently in exile in India, and her party will participate in the elections Dr. Yunus plans to oversee. BBC reports that Hasina is facing charges in Bangladesh related to crimes against humanity, contributing to the uncertainty surrounding her return.

Reflecting on his unexpected appointment as interim leader after Sheikh Hasina’s ousting, Dr. Yunus admitted to feeling "dazzled." "I never imagined I would be leading the government," said the Nobel laureate. "I had no prior experience running a government, and I had to quickly get up to speed."

Upon stabilizing his position, Dr. Yunus focused on key priorities: restoring law and order, and repairing the country’s struggling economy. "The economy is shattered; it’s like we’ve been hit by a terrible storm for 16 years," he said, emphasizing the need for swift action.

He also revealed that he had directed the Ministry of Labour to reform labor laws in line with international standards.

Sheikh Hasina, who led Bangladesh with a strong grip since 2009, presided over a government that faced widespread allegations of human rights abuses, including the violent suppression of dissent and political rivals. Her rule was marked by harsh crackdowns on political opponents, and protests, particularly by students, were often met with force. Last year, an uprising led to her removal from office.

Dr. Yunus remarked on the country’s chaotic state following Hasina’s exit. "We inherited a situation of complete disorder, with violent protests, people being killed and injured," he recalled. While many in Dhaka say the situation hasn’t significantly improved, Yunus contended that relative progress had been made. "When comparing this time to last year, things look better, but it’s all relative. We’re not claiming everything is ideal," he stated.

He attributed much of Bangladesh's current turmoil to the preceding administration. "We are not an ideal country, but we are working within the continuum of what we inherited. It's been a long-running situation."

Tensions remain high, particularly among those who suffered under Hasina's regime. Many demonstrators continue to demand accountability for the violent crackdown on student protests. Bangladesh’s courts have issued an arrest warrant for Hasina, but India has yet to respond.

As interim leader, Dr. Yunus has also faced questions about the safety of individuals associated with Hasina’s Awami League. In February, homes belonging to AL members, including those of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s family, were attacked after an announcement that Hasina would deliver a speech via YouTube. The Awami League accused the interim government of tacitly endorsing violence.

When questioned about these claims, Yunus defended his government, stating, "The law is in place. If anyone feels threatened, they can go to the police station and file a complaint. The law will take its course. Complaining to the media does not resolve anything."

Dr. Yunus also commented on the impact of the U.S. administration's decision to reduce foreign aid to Bangladesh. While acknowledging the potential consequences, Yunus maintained that the government would adapt. "It’s their decision, but we’ve been benefiting from the aid in areas like anti-corruption efforts," he said. Last year, the United States committed $450 million in official development assistance to Bangladesh, making it the third-largest provider of aid to the country.

"We’ll manage," Yunus concluded, addressing concerns over potential budget shortfalls.

This story highlights the complex political landscape in Bangladesh as the country navigates its path toward elections under Dr. Yunus' leadership, amid ongoing challenges and uncertainty surrounding the Awami League's participation.