1 day ago
Last Updated:May 28, 2025, 09:09 IST
Party insiders say the delay in holding polls could push the country towards political instability, and urgent steps are needed to prevent further escalation
While Yunus has cited interference from the banned Awami League and alleged foreign influence as factors behind the unrest, experts argue that such claims do not justify inaction. (Reuters)
The Bangladesh ist Party (BNP) has voiced strong dissatisfaction over the continued silence of Dr Muhammad Yunus, the country’s interim leader, regarding a “firm commitment" to hold national elections by December 2025.
“We demand the prompt announcement of a clear roadmap for the formation of a national Parliament through a free, fair, and impartial election by December 2025," said BNP standing committee member Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain.
Following a high-level meeting between the BNP and Yunus last Saturday, the opposition expected a definitive announcement on the election schedule. However, after several rounds of discussions, the government indicated that elections would be held by June next year—a timeline the BNP has rejected, warning that such delays could lead to widespread unrest.
Party insiders say the delay could push the country towards political instability, and urgent steps are needed to prevent further escalation.
Critics and political analysts have questioned the government’s handling of the situation. While Yunus has cited interference from the banned Awami League and alleged foreign influence as factors behind the unrest, experts argue that such claims do not justify inaction. Many are now asking what concrete measures the Yunus administration has taken to control the deteriorating situation.
Adding to the public discontent is the recent ordinance introducing stricter rules for government employees, which triggered widespread protests. According to the new rules, swift disciplinary action can be taken against government employees without formal departmental proceedings and employees will receive a show-cause notice within seven days of an allegation being filed.
The Daily Star reported that after the amendment, employees can be terminated without an opportunity for self-defence for offences such as disrupting discipline, obstructing duties, unauthorised absence, or inciting others to not carry out their duties.
Although the demonstrations against the new rules have been temporarily suspended after the government initiated dialogue, tensions remain high.
Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman, along with the chiefs of the navy and air force, recently met with Yunus and emphasised the importance of holding elections by December this year to enable an elected government to assume power.
Amidst the crisis, Yunus’s decision to embark on an official trip to Japan from May 28 to 30 has also drawn sharp criticism. Bangladesh is expected to sign two major loan agreements with Japan, amounting to $1.074 billion, during the visit but many are questioning the rationale behind Yunus’ departure at a time of growing domestic turmoil.
As unrest continues to simmer, the political climate in Bangladesh remains fragile and uncertain.
Location :Dhaka, Bangladesh
First Published:News world BNP Slams Yunus For Silence On December Election Timeline, Questions Japan Visit
