Govt Aims for Credible, Inclusive Election: Prof Yunus

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Tuesday said the government is working to build broad national consensus around a renewed political system that ensures inclusive, participatory, and credible elections.

“Our goal is clear—to create a society where all Bangladeshis can live in peace, with pride, freedom, and dignity,” he said while addressing a commemoration and dialogue event marking the anniversary of the July 2024 events.

Prof Yunus stressed that their work remains unfinished. Alongside the reform agenda, efforts are underway to ensure legal accountability for gross human rights violations.

“But justice is not only about punishment—it is about making sure that state power can never again be used to suppress, silence, or destroy its own people,” he said.

The event brought together political leaders, civil society members, youth representatives, and international partners. It marked the first anniversary of the July Uprising, during which thousands, especially the youth, stood against tyranny to reclaim the nation’s dignity.

Prof Yunus paid tribute to those who lost their lives, saying their sacrifices paved the way for a new chapter rooted in hope, human rights, and democratic renewal.

At his request, the UN Human Rights Office conducted an independent fact-finding mission into the July–August 2024 events. Released in February 2025, the report documented widespread atrocities, estimating 1,400 lives lost and raising concerns over potential crimes against humanity.

“These were not isolated incidents. The violence was systematic, directed, and coordinated at the highest levels of the previous regime,” Prof Yunus said.

He acknowledged the support of the international community, especially the United Nations, for standing by Bangladesh in its darkest hour. He expressed gratitude to the High Commissioner for Human Rights and others involved in the fact-finding mission.

Following the recommendations, the interim government has initiated key reforms. These include amending the Code of Criminal Procedure, acceding to the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, and signing an MoU with the UN to set up a human rights mission in Dhaka.

The mission will offer technical support and help build institutional capacity to safeguard human rights.

Prof Yunus thanked UN Secretary-General António Guterres for his solidarity and his visit to Bangladesh in March, and expressed appreciation to all those who contributed to documenting the events and supporting reform efforts.