Dhaka, November 13: Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus has stated that the Awami League will not be able to participate in the upcoming parliamentary elections. He cited the suspension of the party’s activities under the anti-terrorism law and the subsequent decision by the Election Commission to cancel its registration. Yunus made the remarks during a meeting with UK Minister for International Development Baroness Jenny Chapman at the State Guest House, Jamuna, on Thursday evening.
The discussion covered a wide range of topics including bilateral relations, the forthcoming elections, curbing illegal migration, the Rohingya crisis, trade expansion, and enhanced cooperation in aviation and maritime sectors. Yunus emphasized that elections will be held on schedule in the first half of February and will be participatory and inclusive. He expressed hope that young voters, long deprived of voting rights during 16 years of autocracy and three “truncated” elections, would turn out in large numbers this time.
Yunus highlighted that the July Uprising had reflected the aspirations of millions, leading to the “July Charter”, which has paved the way for a new beginning in Bangladesh. He added that the National Consensus Commission and political dialogue are strengthening the path of democracy.
Baroness Chapman praised the interim government and Yunus’s leadership, noting that the ongoing national dialogue based on the July Charter is an important step toward political stability in Bangladesh. She also raised concerns about the recent rise in illegal migration to the UK, urging the need for safe and legal migration channels. Yunus assured that the government remains committed to ensuring safe migration and encourages Bangladeshis to seek employment abroad through legal means.
On the Rohingya issue, both leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining humanitarian assistance. Yunus noted that youths growing up in the camps are increasingly frustrated due to lack of educational opportunities, highlighting the need to secure their right to education.
The leaders also discussed expanding trade and cooperation. Yunus mentioned that Bangladesh is in the process of purchasing a UK research vessel for Bay of Bengal studies, while Chapman said an Airbus International executive would soon visit Bangladesh, which will strengthen aviation sector collaboration.
The meeting was attended by National Security Adviser Dr. Khalilur Rahman, Lamia Morshed, and UK High Commissioner Sarah Cook.