Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today urged the countrymen to vote in the general elections to elect a new government and in the referendum to shape the future Bangladesh, saying it is a historic, decisive and future-defining moment for the nation.
“Some days come in the life of every nation that have far-reaching significance, when the future direction of a state, the character and stability of democracy and the fate of future generations are determined,” he said.
“The day after tomorrow is just such a day, when two votes are going to be held. We will all together elect a new government and at the same time determine the future structure of our beloved Bangladesh through a referendum,” the Chief Adviser added.
Professor Yunus made the remarks while addressing the nation this evening on the occasion of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad (JS) election and the referendum on the implementation of the July National Charter on February 12.
Bangladesh Television (BTV) and Bangladesh Betar simultaneously aired the speech.
At the onset of his speech, he extended his greetings to people of all ages and walks of life and recalled with deep respect the martyrs of the Liberation War and the July Mass Uprising, whose sacrifices, he said, made the election and the referendum possible.
The Chief Adviser noted that Bangladesh now stands at a critical democratic transition after a long struggle against authoritarianism, saying, “The nation remains indebted forever to the common people-particularly the July fighters-whose sacrifices paved the way for this general polls and the referendum”.
He said the formal election campaign has already ended and the time has come for citizens to decide.
“(At this moment), first of all, I would like to mention with deep satisfaction and gratitude that the overall campaigning surrounding this election has been remarkably peaceful compared to any previous election,” Prof Yunus said.
Despite differences in opinions and ideologies, he said, political parties have shown restraint, candidates have behaved responsibly, and the general public has remained aware.
“This environment did not arise suddenly-it is the result of a collective sense of responsibility,” the Chief Adviser added.
“Hence, I thank all political parties, candidates, voters, the Election Commission, representatives of civil society, media professionals, and members of law-enforcement agencies and the administration. Through your combined efforts, we reached the threshold of holding the polls in an expected atmosphere,” he said.
At the same time, the Chief Adviser expressed the deep sorrow caused by several violent incidents since the announcement of the election schedule, which claimed some valuable lives.
