Yunus-Tarique Meeting Breaks the Deadlock over Transition

Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus and BNP acting chairman had a meeting in London on Friday 13 June 2025.

By Mostafa Kamal Majumder

In a political climate often marred by divisions, the recent meeting between Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus and BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman stands out as a testament to diplomatic maturity. Both leaders, despite initial disagreements on election timing, demonstrated a commendable commitment to democratic stability by accommodating each other’s positions. The result—an agreement on a February election—has ended a prolonged deadlock, allowing the nation to move forward with clarity.

This willingness to compromise is a hallmark of responsible leadership. Dr. Yunus, originally favoring an early April poll, and Rahman, insistent on a December election, both set aside rigid preferences in pursuit of a solution that balances concerns across the political spectrum. Their flexibility in negotiation highlights the importance of dialogue in governance, reinforcing the idea that democracy flourishes when leaders prioritize collective interests over partisan rigidity.

The reaction from political circles has largely been positive. Jamaat Secretary General Golam Parwar aptly noted that resolving disputes through dialogue embodies the beauty of democracy. Rashed Prodhan of JAGPA acknowledged that this agreement lifts the cloud of uncertainty surrounding the election, clearing the path for an undisputed democratic transition. However, voices from the newly formed National Citizen Party have urged broader inclusivity in determining electoral schedules, emphasizing that consensus must extend beyond bilateral agreements.

Despite differing perspectives, the overarching outcome is undeniable: the controversy over the timing of elections has been settled, and Bangladesh can now move confidently toward the polls. With all major stakeholders on board, the focus should shift to ensuring a free, fair, and transparent electoral process.

As the nation prepares for the vote, this moment serves as a crucial reminder—democracy is strengthened not just by elections themselves but by the spirit in which they are conducted. With continued dialogue, cooperation, and an unwavering commitment to the people’s will, Bangladesh can pave the way for a stable and representative governance system.