Yunus calls on Bangladeshis to vote in first elections since 2024 uprising

Wednesday 11 February 2026 - 09:30

By: Sahili Aya

Yunus calls on Bangladeshis to vote in first elections since 2024 uprising

Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has urged citizens to participate in Thursday’s general elections, describing the vote as a decisive moment in the country’s political transition following the 2024 uprising that led to the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

In a televised address, Yunus called on more than 127 million registered voters to head to polling stations without fear. He portrayed the elections as an opportunity to redefine the nation’s political future after nearly two decades of restricted democratic space under the previous administration.

“These elections will determine the future structure and direction of the state,” Yunus said, emphasizing that the vote would also coincide with a referendum on constitutional reforms.

The upcoming ballot marks the first national election since Hasina’s government was ousted on August 5, 2024, after weeks of mass protests that resulted in significant casualties. Official figures indicate that around 1,400 people were killed and thousands injured during the unrest.

Yunus warned that authorities would respond firmly to any attempts to disrupt the voting process. Government data shows that five people have died in election-related incidents since the polling schedule was announced in December. However, officials note that previous elections have seen higher levels of violence.

The chief adviser also appealed to political parties and candidates to respect the outcome of the vote and maintain calm. He pledged that the interim administration would transfer power promptly once the electoral process is completed.

Security measures have been intensified nationwide. According to the Election Commission, nearly one million members of law enforcement agencies have been deployed across the country. Surveillance cameras have been installed in more than 90% of the country’s 299 constituencies. Voting in one of the 300 constituencies has been postponed following the death of a candidate.

Separately, the interim government has sought international support in investigating the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent political activist and independent parliamentary candidate. Hadi was shot in Dhaka in December and later died from his injuries. Authorities have filed charges against 17 suspects in connection with the attack.

As Bangladesh prepares for a pivotal vote, observers are closely monitoring whether the elections will usher in a new political chapter and restore public confidence in democratic institutions.