Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus urged citizens from every walk of life to cast their votes thoughtfully in 13th Jatiya Sangsad election and Referendum.
In a message delivered Wednesday afternoon, the Nobel laureate extended warm greetings to the nation and emphasized the profound importance of the upcoming polls, scheduled for February 12, 2026.
He described the combined event as a defining milestone in Bangladesh's political journey, one that goes beyond selecting lawmakers to shaping the very framework of the state's future governance and democratic principles.
Yunus highlighted how the referendum will allow Bangladeshis to voice their preferences on the country's constitutional structure and long-term direction, while the parliamentary election empowers voters to choose capable, accountable representatives aligned with public expectations.
He pointed out the historic nature of this moment, noting that it follows years during which many citizens—particularly a large cohort of young first-time voters and others long denied genuine participation—were excluded from meaningful electoral engagement.
The July uprising, he recalled, restored the people's agency, enabling direct involvement in determining the nation's leadership and path forward.
The Chief Adviser stressed that a credible, impartial, and intimidation-free process forms the bedrock of any democratic society.
He reaffirmed the interim government's unwavering commitment to delivering precisely that outcome.
Yunus appealed to political parties, candidates, and all stakeholders to uphold restraint, mutual respect, and democratic conduct throughout the voting period.
He directed the Election Commission, administration, security forces, and law enforcement agencies to carry out their roles with strict professionalism and neutrality, ensuring every citizen can vote freely without fear or external pressure.
"This is more than an electoral exercise; it represents the institutional culmination of democratic hopes and national dignity," Yunus said.
He expressed confidence that widespread, enthusiastic participation would pave the way for a peaceful, inclusive, and stable Bangladesh.
Concluding his address, the Chief Adviser called on all Bangladeshis to embrace this opportunity as a shared responsibility, transforming the vote into a vibrant celebration of democracy that propels the country toward lasting progress.
