Bangladesh Set to Hold Elections in February Despite Speculations

Dhaka, Aug 20 (PTI) — Bangladesh's interim government is unwavering in its determination to hold general elections in February next year, according to Law Adviser Asif Nazrul, as reported by the media on Wednesday. "The government is moving forward with all preparations for the election," Nazrul stated, according to the Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS). "The polls will be held in February, and the government's stance on this remains unwavering," he reiterated after attending a meeting at the Cabinet Division on Tuesday. The law adviser's remarks emerged amidst growing speculation over the timing of the elections, sparked by National Citizen Party leaders who have dismissed the likelihood of polls in February next year, citing the need for key reforms and the completion of trials initiated by the interim government. Commenting further, Nazrul noted that political parties making statements about election timing is a typical aspect of the political process. "You have always seen this. Traditionally in Bangladesh, such political statements have been made, and the same is happening now. There has not been any major qualitative change in this discourse. Therefore, whatever is said about the timing of the election should be seen as part of the political process," he elaborated. Nonetheless, he emphasized that conducting the elections is the government's responsibility and not that of any political party. "On behalf of the government, we are saying in unequivocal terms that the election will be completed in February," he declared. Nazrul further added that Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus is a "globally respected figure" and that there is no deviation from his commitment to holding the election as scheduled. Earlier this month, Yunus confirmed that the general elections would be held in February, with the Election Commission announcing that the polls would occur in the first week of the month. This marks Bangladesh's 13th parliamentary election. A roadmap for the election is expected to be announced within this week, as indicated by Election Commission officials.

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