Chief Adviser assures US Senator Gary Peters that elections will be free, fair, and held in a festive atmosphere, resembling past celebrations.
US Senator met with Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus at the state guest house, Jamuna.
During their hour-long meeting on Tuesday, the two leaders discussed mutual interests and ways to deepen the friendly relations between the two countries.
Senator Peters inquired about the interim government’s reform initiatives, reports from key commissions, and the government’s plans to ensure free and fair elections.
At the time, the Chief Adviser said that if political parties agree to minimal reforms, the government will hold elections in December. However, if the parties demand a larger reform package from the government, the general elections will be held a few months later.
He assured that the elections would be free and fair, taking place in a festive environment. He added that election day would be a grand celebration, similar to what had been seen in the past.
Dr Yunus further said that if political parties agree on the proposed reforms by major commissions, they will sign the July Charter. He emphasized that the July Charter would determine the country’s future course.
Senator Peters praised the government’s reform agenda, saying that the United States hopes for a smooth democratic transition in Bangladesh.
He also said that many Bangladeshi-origin individuals reside in his electoral district, including the city of Detroit. Some of them have expressed concerns over recent attacks on minorities.
Peters acknowledged that there has been widespread misinformation regarding minority persecution. He mentioned that some of this misinformation has spread in the United States, increasing concerns among minority communities.
Dr Yunus reaffirmed his government’s commitment to upholding the human rights of every citizen, regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, or gender.
He explained that the attacks on minorities, particularly Hindus, following last August’s political shift were politically motivated rather than religiously driven. However, his government has taken swift action against the perpetrators.
Professor Yunus invited the US senator to visit various cities in Bangladesh and encouraged other American political leaders, journalists, and activists to visit the country.
“We need your help. Please ask your friends to visit Bangladesh. This way, we can combat the spread of misinformation,” he urged.
During the meeting, the two leaders also discussed social business, a world free of poverty, and microfinance as a tool in the fight against poverty in the US and globally.
