Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus stated that the people of Bangladesh continue to view the interim government as a "suitable solution" for the country’s current political needs, but assured that the government will ensure national elections are held no later than June 2026.
Speaking to Al Jazeera during an interview recorded at their Doha headquarters, Prof Yunus noted, "There’s no demand from the public for an immediate handover of power. We haven't encountered any significant unrest or calls for urgent elections." The interview was aired on April 27.
Responding to a question about whether the interim government’s initial goodwill had diminished, Prof Yunus emphasized that the election timeline would be influenced by the scope of agreed-upon reforms. "If a broad set of reforms is endorsed, the process will naturally extend. A smaller reform package could enable elections by December," he explained. "Regardless, elections will not be pushed beyond June 2026," he added, promising the most transparent and credible election in Bangladesh's history.
When asked if the Awami League would be permitted to contest in the upcoming election, Prof Yunus said, "We’ll wait for their formal decision first. Once they declare their position, the Election Commission and other legal frameworks will come into play."
Addressing Bangladesh’s diplomatic ties, particularly with India, Prof Yunus rejected the notion of being given a "cold shoulder" by New Delhi. "I wouldn't describe it that way. Any misunderstandings are temporary and solvable. We aspire to maintain the strongest possible relationship with India," he stated.
On speculation regarding his recent diplomatic travels — visiting China before India — Prof Yunus clarified that he had sought a visit to India but received no response, leading him instead to prioritize China and Malaysia.
Regarding relations with the United States, Prof Yunus reassured that Bangladesh maintains a "strong, cordial, and enduring" relationship with the Trump administration. When asked whether Bangladesh was being pressured to choose between global powers, he replied, "There’s no choice to be made — the USA, China, and India are all our friends."
In response to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s assertions of legitimacy and her activities abroad, particularly in India, Prof Yunus shared that he recently discussed the issue with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok. "I expressed concerns over her delivering provocative speeches from abroad, which impact internal stability," he said. Modi, according to Yunus, responded by pointing out that India’s open media landscape limits such control.
Prof Yunus also confirmed that Bangladesh has formally requested India to facilitate Sheikh Hasina’s return to face legal proceedings, noting that they await both a response from India and the next steps from the Bangladeshi judiciary.
Lastly, he mentioned that several foreign governments are cooperating with Bangladesh to recover funds illegally transferred overseas.
