The interim government has also pledged to address grievances related to the previous administration’s actions. Yunus announced that efforts are underway to withdraw false cases and release detained students who were part of the recent popular uprisings.

In a pivotal televised address, Professor Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser of Bangladesh’s interim government, emphasized the political nature of the upcoming elections and highlighted the government’s commitment to addressing both immediate and long-term challenges facing the nation.

Yunus underscored that the timing of the elections is a matter of political decision and not within the remit of the interim government. He stated, “The people of Bangladesh will ultimately decide when and how we will transition out of this interim phase. We are committed to facilitating a fair and transparent electoral process, but the decision on the timing is up to the political sphere.”

The interim government, which assumed office following the resignation of the previous administration, is focused on restoring normalcy in flood-affected regions. Yunus reported that all necessary measures have been taken to address the immediate needs of those impacted by the severe flooding that has affected 11 districts across Bangladesh.

According to the Disaster Management and Relief Ministry, the floods have displaced approximately one million families and left 18 dead, with 52,09,798 people affected across several districts including Feni, Cumilla, Chattogram, and Sylhet. Rescue operations are ongoing, with 748 medical teams deployed to provide essential healthcare services. Additionally, 4,15,273 people have sought refuge in 3,654 shelter centers.

In response to the crisis, the government has allocated Tk 3.52 crore for flood relief efforts, distributed 20,650 tonnes of rice, and provided 15,000 packages of dry food. Private organizations and volunteers have also been active in the relief operations, working alongside government agencies to coordinate aid and support.

Model electoral process

Yunus called for national unity and long-term solutions to these crises, urging citizens to support ongoing efforts rather than seeking immediate fixes or resorting to vigilante actions. He stressed, “We are one family with a common goal. We are dedicated to meeting the aspirations of our youth and building a future where everyone’s rights are fully protected.”

In his address, Yunus also unveiled plans for the establishment of a ‘July Mass Killing Memorial Foundation.’ This initiative aims to honour the victims of recent mass uprisings and ensure that justice is served. “We are committed to creating a liberal, democratic, and non-discriminatory Bangladesh. The foundation will serve as a symbol of our commitment to human rights and the memory of those who lost their lives,” Yunus explained.

The interim government has already initiated several reforms, including plans to overhaul the Election Commission to ensure a model electoral process. Yunus indicated that political decisions will be made through political discussions, emphasizing that the interim government’s role is to facilitate these processes rather than dictate them.

Independent investigation

The interim government has also pledged to address grievances related to the previous administration’s actions. Yunus announced that efforts are underway to withdraw false cases and release detained students who were part of the recent popular uprisings. “We are preparing a comprehensive list of injured individuals and martyrs’ families to provide them with the necessary support and compensation,” he said.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has been invited to Bangladesh to oversee an independent investigation into the use of force and casualties during the recent uprisings. Rory Mungoven, Chief of the Asia-Pacific section of the OHCHR, is leading the preliminary discussions with the interim government. Mungoven stated, “We see this as a historic opportunity for Bangladesh to restore democracy, renew its institutions, and advance human rights. Our mission is to support the interim government and the people of Bangladesh during this crucial time.”

The OHCHR team, which is currently in Dhaka, is engaging with various stakeholders to understand the country’s priorities and explore how the Office of the High Commissioner can assist in fact-finding and support national processes.

As Bangladesh grapples with both the aftermath of the flooding and the political transition, Yunus’s address reflects a clear message of commitment to rebuilding and reform. “We are here to serve the people of Bangladesh and to ensure that our country emerges stronger and more just. Your patience and support are crucial as we work towards these goals,” Yunus concluded.