Chief Adviser of the Interim Government Professor Muhammad Yunus has said that the forces which fled the country have realized that young fighters are the biggest obstacle to their return. As a result, they are desperate to remove these obstacles and re-establish their rule before the election. He warned that attempts are being made to create instability in the country through violence and covert attacks ahead of the polls.

He made the remarks in his address to the nation on Tuesday evening, marking Victory Day 2025.

Describing the upcoming 13th parliamentary election and the referendum as a “historic moment that will determine Bangladesh’s future course,” the Chief Adviser called upon citizens to “protect the vote and protect the country.” This was Muhammad Yunus’s first address to the nation since the Election Commission announced the schedule for the 13th parliamentary election and referendum, setting February 12 next year as the polling date.

At the beginning of his speech, he extended Victory Day greetings to people of all ages—children, adolescents, youths, students, women and men, the young and the elderly. He paid deep tribute to the brave fighters and martyrs who sacrificed their lives in the Liberation War and in generations of struggles for independence.

Dr. Yunus said BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, a three-time prime minister and a key figure in democratic politics, is currently hospitalized in a critical condition, which is a matter of concern for the nation. He said the interim government has been giving the highest priority to her health from the very beginning. Considering her role in the country’s history, her commitment to independence, sovereignty and democracy, and public sentiment toward her, the government has already declared her a Very Important Person (VIP) of the state. He added that the government is providing all necessary support for her treatment, both at home and abroad if required, respecting her family’s wishes.

Referring to the recent attack on Inkilab Mancha Convener Sharif Osman Hadi, the Chief Adviser said the incident was not merely an attack on an individual but an attack on Bangladesh’s existence and its democratic journey. He said Hadi is currently in critical condition and that the government has taken all necessary steps to ensure his treatment and security, including sending him to Singapore for advanced medical care. He urged the nation to pray sincerely for his recovery. Dr. Yunus assured the public that those involved in the attack have been initially identified and that no one involved in the conspiracy will be spared, wherever they may be.

He stated firmly that the attempts of defeated fascist terrorist forces would be completely foiled and that no one would be able to stop Bangladesh’s democratic progress through fear, terrorism or bloodshed. He urged citizens to remain calm, not to fall for rumors or propaganda, and to remain united against those trying to destabilize the country. He said these forces are in a hurry because once the election is held, their allies will no longer be able to support them. That is why they want to ensure their return before the election, resorting to various forms of covert violence, with even more dangerous plans ahead.

Dr. Yunus emphasized that the future of the nation, as well as that of future generations, depends on the vote. He called on citizens to vote for worthy candidates and ensure the country’s future. He pledged to take all necessary measures to make the election truly festive, participatory, peaceful and fair. He urged political parties to cooperate in creating a fair and peaceful electoral environment, reminding them to see one another as competitors, not enemies.

The Chief Adviser said that since assuming responsibility, the interim government has prioritized three issues: justice for the July–August killings, essential structural reforms to transition to an accountable and effective democratic system, and a fair election. He noted that the trials related to the killings during the July uprising are progressing through due legal process and that at least one verdict has already been delivered by the tribunal.

He said the International Crimes Tribunal, through an independent, transparent and evidence-based process, has sentenced former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death as the principal architect of indiscriminate killings of students, workers and ordinary citizens, and that the government has formally requested India to repatriate Sheikh Hasina and former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan.

Dr. Yunus said several institutional and structural reforms have already been completed, dozens of outdated laws amended, and several new laws enacted. He described the July National Charter as the most significant reform step, issued by ordinance to ensure fundamental constitutional reforms. He said it is now up to the people to decide, explaining that a referendum on the July National Charter will be held alongside the parliamentary election. Citizens will cast “yes” or “no” votes to express their support or opposition to the reform framework, which will determine the character, structure and future direction of the new Bangladesh.

Calling on citizens to be conscious voters, he urged them not to see voting as a mere formality of stamping a ballot, but as active participation in rebuilding the state and exercising democratic rights. He reminded the nation that ownership of the country lies with the people, and that ownership is expressed through their vote.

Addressing political leaders, he said their role is crucial in preserving the sanctity and credibility of the election and urged them to create an environment that strengthens public trust in democratic processes. Recalling past election experiences under the Awami League government, he warned that those who steal ballot boxes are enemies of the people and destroy citizens’ freedom. He urged voters to protect their votes, resist obstruction in an orderly manner, and seek help from law enforcement if necessary.

In his concluding remarks, Dr. Yunus said the nation stands at the threshold of a new history and that the country, the state and its future belong to its people. He called on citizens to seize Victory Day as an opportunity for renewed national unity, drawing inspiration from the Liberation War and the July mass uprising, and to move forward together on the path of democratic transition and people’s empowerment.

He urged all citizens, regardless of religion, ethnicity, community or gender identity, to unite and work hand in hand to build a safe, peaceful, prosperous and democratic Bangladesh for future generations.