Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday described the upcoming national election as a historic opportunity to build a new Bangladesh, stressing that this post-uprising election must be made ‘memorable’ by ensuring it is conducted smoothly, peacefully and fairly.
“We had seen elections before. Any sane person would say that the elections held in the past were not elections but fraud,” he said while giving instructions on election preparations to Upazila Nirbahi Officers (UNOs) across the country via video conference from the State Guest House Jamuna.
All DCs and Cabinet Division officials were also connected online.
Prof Yunus emphasised that the upcoming polls are far more than routine administrative responsibilities. “This is a historic responsibility. If we can fulfill it properly, the next election day will become historic for the people as well," he said.
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Mentioning that the election schedule will be announced soon, Prof Yunus urged the UNOs to plan and prepare now for when, how, and what work must be done until the election is completed.
“History has given us a new opportunity. Another generation will not get this opportunity,” he said, adding, “If we can utilize it, we will be able to build a new Bangladesh. If we fail, the nation will be in trouble.”
About UNOs, he said, “Only if you fulfill your responsibilities properly will the government be able to fulfil its responsibilities successfully.”
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Prof Yunus highlighted the importance of both the upcoming national election and the referendum, calling each crucial for the nation’s future. “The election is for the next five years, and the referendum is for a hundred years.”
Regarding the referendum, he said it carries the potential to permanently transform Bangladesh. “Through this, we can lay the foundation of the new Bangladesh we want to create.”
He reminded newly appointed UNOs that their primary responsibility is to organise a peaceful and participatory election. He advised them to visit all polling stations in their respective areas, consult with stakeholders, local communities, and colleagues, and make thorough preparations for “a beautiful election."
Stressing the need to raise voter awareness about the referendum, he said voters must understand that they should clearly decide whether they will vote ‘Yes’ or ‘No’.
The Chief Adviser likened election officials to midwives. “If the midwives are good, the babies born are also good,” he said, underscoring the crucial role of administrators.
He instructed officials to act creatively in handling any situation and to take effective measures to prevent misinformation and rumors.
Emphasising the participation of women in the polls, he said it must be ensured that women can come to the polling stations safely and without difficulty.
Chief Adviser’s Principal Secretary M Siraz Uddin Miah, Cabinet Secretary Dr Sheikh Abdur Rashid, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam, and Public Administration Secretary Md Ehsanul Haque were also present.