Yunus urges expediting reform process ahead of polls

Chief Adviser and Chairman of the National Consensus Commission, Professor Muhammad Yunus, has emphasised the need to expedite the reform process with the goal of holding the general election between December this year and June 2026.  

This directive came during a meeting with two members of the Consensus Commission held on Monday afternoon at the State Guesthouse Jamuna. 

The meeting was attended by Professor Ali Riaz, Vice-Chairman of the National Consensus Commission, and Dr Badiul Alam Majumder, a member of the commission. Monir Haider, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser for Consensus Building, was also present.  

During the meeting, Professor Ali Riaz and Dr Badiul Alam Majumder briefed Professor Yunus on the progress of the National Consensus Commission’s activities. 

They highlighted that separate discussions are ongoing with political parties regarding the recommendations of various reform commissions. 

As of Saturday, consultations have been completed with a total of eight political parties. A meeting with the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is scheduled for Thursday.  

In addition to engaging political stakeholders, the commission has launched several initiatives to gauge public opinion and raise awareness about the reform process. These efforts aim to ensure transparency and inclusivity as the nation moves toward implementing critical reforms.  

Professor Yunus stressed the importance of accelerating the reform process to meet the timeline for holding national elections between December this year and June next year. 

He urged political parties to actively participate in discussions and collaborate on advancing the overall reform agenda.  

As Bangladesh approaches this pivotal juncture, the role of the National Consensus Commission remains crucial in fostering dialogue, driving reforms, and ensuring that the electoral process reflects the aspirations of the people.