Desk Report:
The Chief Advisor of the interim government addressed the nation on the occasion of the 13th National Parliament Election and the July National Charter Referendum. He called for exercising the right to vote in a peaceful and festive atmosphere, describing the election and referendum to be held tomorrow as a historic and future-defining moment in the life of the nation. At the beginning of his speech, he remembered the martyrs of the Great Liberation War and the July Uprising with deep respect and said that without the sacrifice of the people, this election and referendum would not have been possible.
The Chief Advisor said that this election is not just a regular constitutional process; it is the first national election after a mass uprising, which is a constitutional expression of the people against long-standing discrimination and deprivation. He said that a record number of 51 political parties are participating in this election and the total number of candidates, including independents, is more than 2,000, which is the highest in the country’s history. He thanked the political parties, candidates, voters, the Election Commission, law enforcement agencies and the media for the relatively peaceful campaign. However, he also expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives in the election violence.
Making a special appeal to the young and women voters, he said that the generation that was not able to vote despite having the right to vote for the last 17 years is now getting the opportunity to exercise their rights in a real sense. Mentioning the contribution of women from the Liberation War to the recent movement, he said that this election is a new beginning for them. Addressing the youth, he said that a vote can not only change the government, but also answer a long silence.
Stating that the government has made maximum preparations to ensure free, fair and impartial elections, he said that a record number of law enforcement agencies have been deployed and the armed forces with magisterial powers will perform their duties. For the first time, CCTV cameras, body cameras, drones and dog squads are being used extensively. In addition, for the first time, the opportunity has been created for expatriate Bangladeshis to exercise their voting rights, and postal ballots have been made available for government officials and eligible citizens in prison.
Warning against the attempts to spread rumors and misinformation surrounding the elections, the Chief Advisor said not to share any information without verification. He urged people to contact the Election Friend Hotline 333 if necessary. He also assured that the interim government will quickly hand over responsibility to the elected representatives.
He referred to the July National Charter as a historical document of the future path of the nation and said that it was formulated after discussions with more than 30 political parties. Stating that the people will directly express their opinions on the future structure and reform directions of the state through the referendum, he said that the impact of this vote will last for many generations.
At the end of his speech, the Chief Advisor called on the countrymen to go to the polling stations in groups and vote peacefully. He said, “The history of the future of Bangladesh will be written by your vote. Let this election day be the birthday of the new Bangladesh.”
