Don't get used by anyone, Prof Yunus tells police

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Tuesday urged the police to make sure that they are not used by anyone in the next national election as the interim government is committed to holding a free, fair and peaceful election in the country.

"Remember, if a person is elected through irregularities, it is not possible to establish justice by that person. Therefore, do not be used by anyone. Dedicate yourselves to the elections as a vow to establish truth and justice," he said highlighting the role of police.

The Chief Adviser was speaking at a function marking the Police Week 2025.
Referring to his several speeches to the nation, the Chief Adviser said he has already said the thirteenth parliamentary election will be held in the country between December this year and June next year.

"The role of police members is very important in ensuring that the election is held in a fair and peaceful manner," he said.

Prof Yunus urged the police to ensure equal treatment to all the candidates in the election and create an environment where voters can exercise their right to vote without fear or hindrance. A fair and impartial election is very important so that the police force is never used as a party force or for wrongdoing in the future, he said.

"This period before the election is a very difficult time," Prof Yunus said, urging the police members to remain vigilant so that the "defeated forces" do not get the chance to destabilise the country in any way.

He warned of the evil force which might try to break the unity. "You must always be vigilant to resist it."

After the current interim government took office, Prof Yunus said, they have seen people taking to the streets with their demands- be it justified or unjustified.

"You have demonstrated much patience in these situations. Hopefully, you will continue to work in the coming days with the same patience," he added.

Describing the police as friends of the people, Prof Yunus said the police force has to establish that image.

For the first time, a meeting will be held with religious leaders, journalists and leaders of different communities during the Police Week.

"The public's expectations on the police will be discussed in this meeting. I hope that this continues," the Chief Adviser said, highlighting the importance of such meetings regularly.

He said this is very important to reduce the distance between the police and the public.

Prof Yunus said they dream of building a discrimination-free, democratic Bangladesh based on fairness.

"The July mass uprising gave us that opportunity...let us not lose this opportunity," he said, adding that the next generation will make them responsible if this opportunity is lost.

Prof Yunus talked about their collective dream that Bangladesh will continue to stand tall as a peaceful, prosperous country in the world and reminded them of the role of police in fulfilling this dream.

He hoped that Bangladesh Police will be praised all over the world.

Prof Yunus said the people of the country want to see the police playing a very strong role in preventing violence against women. "I urge you to work with utmost sensitivity for the safety of women and children," he said.

Prof Yunus said they will feel that Bangladesh has progressed much in terms of safety and security if the women and children get safe and secure.

The Chief Adviser urged the police to ensure that women of all classes and professions call the police hotline and get the maximum help in any harassment incident. �"UNB