DHAKA, Feb 16 (V7N) - Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has called upon the nation to continue the struggle to build a just, humane and democratic Bangladesh as he delivered his farewell address to the country on Monday night.

Highlighting the interim government’s initiatives over the last 18 months, he urged people of all parties, religions, castes and genders to remain united in protecting democratic values, rights and the rule of law.

He said the people of the country have gradually started practising democracy, freedom of speech, accountability and welfare-oriented governance, adding that the festive and participatory national election ensured people’s rights and created a commendable precedent for the future.

Expressing optimism, Yunus said the election marked not only a transfer of power but the beginning of a new democratic journey and the birth of a new Bangladesh. He thanked voters, political parties, law enforcement agencies, armed forces and government officials for their cooperation in holding a peaceful election after a long gap.

Recalling the responsibilities he was given after the July 2024 uprising, he said the interim government worked on reform, justice and elections to restore normalcy at a time when the country faced deep political, economic and institutional crises.

The Chief Adviser said his government formulated around 130 new laws and amendments and issued about 600 executive orders, most of which have already been implemented, consolidating civil rights, strengthening the judiciary and ensuring protection against disappearances, murder and extrajudicial killings.

He also highlighted measures to ensure safety of women and children, labour rights, economic reforms, expansion of TCB activities and strict actions against hoarding to control essential commodity prices and reduce food inflation.

On foreign policy, Yunus said Bangladesh has restored the foundations of sovereignty, national interest and dignity, while strengthening strategic ties with global partners and bringing the Rohingya crisis back to international attention.

He termed the July National Charter one of the biggest achievements of the interim government and expressed hope that its implementation would permanently block the return of fascism.

Paying tribute to the youths and martyrs of the July uprising, he urged future generations to uphold accountability and democratic practices, saying the broader responsibility of building a new Bangladesh now rests with all citizens.

Concluding his speech, he expressed heartfelt gratitude to the people and sought prayers as he prepared to hand over responsibility to an elected government with optimism for the country’s democratic future.

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