Dhaka, Dec 17, (V7N) - The announcement by Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus regarding the possible timeline for the upcoming national election has been welcomed by most political parties. However, while the uncertainty surrounding the election has been alleviated, several parties remain unconvinced about the practical implementation of the announcement. The BNP is calling for a specific roadmap for the election.

Jamaat-e-Islami, which is emphasizing reforms, welcomed the Chief Adviser’s announcement but stated that the time required for ensuring the neutrality of the election should be taken. Business leaders, on the other hand, believe that the announcement of the election timeline will have a positive impact on business and investment.

Sources within the political parties indicate that they will not be fully reassured until a clear blueprint is laid out, specifying the steps to be taken and their respective timelines. Without a definitive roadmap, there are concerns that the election may be delayed. The fear has increased, especially following the student-led movement that seeks to overthrow Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, as these political parties may not be ready for the election. Additionally, government supporters also believe that a rapid election may not be feasible, according to the BNP and its allied parties.

In his speech on Victory Day, Chief Adviser Dr. Yunus announced that, depending on the completion of necessary reforms, the election could take place by the end of 2025 or in the first half of 2026. Election Commissioner Tahmida Ahmed confirmed that the Election Commission is preparing for the election within this timeline.

The Chief Adviser stated that despite the political consensus, if the election needs to be held with only a few reforms, it may be possible by the end of 2025. However, if substantial reforms and the recommendations of the Election Commission are incorporated, it could take an additional six months, thus pushing the election to 2026.

The day before, BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman had questioned how long the interim government would need and emphasized the public’s right to know. He expressed that the country would soon begin its journey toward a clear election roadmap.

Within 16 hours of this statement, the BNP welcomed the Chief Adviser’s announcement of a possible election timeline, although the party’s permanent committee member, Salahuddin Ahmed, stated that while the Chief Adviser has suggested a potential timeline, the BNP seeks a concrete roadmap, not just an idea.

Mirza Abbas, another member of the BNP’s permanent committee, expressed hope that the interim government would hold a fair election and transfer power to the people. He further stated that the people’s demand after the downfall of "fascist" Hasina is a free and fair election and a democratic government, urging rapid reforms for a democratic government.

A senior member of BNP’s permanent committee, speaking anonymously, said that while the announcement of the election timeline was praiseworthy, there was still uncertainty about the actual process.

Jamaat-e-Islami has stressed the need for reforms, while BNP demands a quicker election. Jamaat Secretary General Mia Golam Parwar expressed hope that reforms would be completed within nine to ten months, but he acknowledged that the announcement marked a shift towards the election. However, he also warned that the interim government may face challenges on this journey, delaying the roadmap further.

As per the Chief Adviser’s announcement, Jamaat has expressed the need for both minor and more comprehensive reforms, depending on the situation. Golam Parwar emphasized that if the necessary reforms are carried out, some delay could be accepted as long as the election is fair and transparent.

Mahmudur Rahman Manna, President of Nagarik Oikya, described the Chief Adviser’s announcement as a “guideline,” appreciating the timeline set for the reforms. However, he expressed uncertainty regarding how long the process would take.

Similarly, AB Party Secretary General Majibur Rahman Manjur also welcomed the announcement but stressed the need for good governance. He cautioned that maintaining the timeline might be difficult.

The Islami Andolon Bangladesh, led by Chhormonia Pir, has placed more emphasis on reforms than on elections. Its Secretary General, Yunus Ahmad, stated that the government could complete the necessary reforms within a year.

On the other hand, the private research organization, Center for Policy Dialogue (CPD), has positively viewed the announcement. Professor Mustafizur Rahman, CPD’s senior fellow, stated that the political parties would be reassured, and the interim government would be motivated to carry out reforms more swiftly and efficiently. He added that the announcement would have a positive impact on the economy, as it would provide a clearer direction for business and investment.

Business leaders, including former director of BGMEA and Managing Director of Ted Group Ashikur Rahman Tuhin, have welcomed the announcement. He highlighted that a full-term elected government is essential for ensuring a conducive environment for business and investment. Following the Chief Adviser’s announcement, entrepreneurs are now contemplating investment plans, and foreign direct investment (FDI) could see a significant increase due to the ongoing reforms.

In conclusion, while political parties remain divided on the specifics, the announcement of the election timeline has had a positive impact on the overall political and economic environment, providing clearer expectations for both citizens and businesses.

END/SMA/RH/