Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has called on all competing candidates to rise above personal or party interests and give priority to the greater interest of the nation, regardless of the election outcome.
“Victory, like defeat, is an integral part of democracy. After the election, dedicate yourselves to building a new, just, democratic, and inclusive Bangladesh together,” he urged the aspirants while addressing the nation on Tuesday evening.
The chief adviser also called on political parties to instruct their activists to refrain from any kind of violence, intimidation, occupying polling centres, influencing voters, or engaging in provocative activities.
“No one should spread rumours on social media or by any other means. The state will not tolerate such behaviour under any circumstances,” he said.
In his 18-minute speech, describing the ongoing claims that the interim government will not hand over power to the elected representatives as “completely baseless”, Yunus assured that the incumbent government will conclude its responsibilities by transferring power at the earliest possible time.
The chief adviser urged everyone to go to polling centres in groups, along with family members, and exercise their voting rights without hesitation.
“The key to the country is in your hands – use it wisely. Let voting day be the birthday of new Bangladesh,” he said.
Bangladesh Television (BTV) and Bangladesh Betar broadcast the speech.
The parliamentary election and the referendum on the July National Charter will be held simultaneously on 12 February.