Struggle for a just Bangladesh must continue

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, highlighting the interim government’s initiatives to ensure democratic rights and values over the last 18 months, has called upon everyone to continue the struggle to build a just, humane and democratic Bangladesh

“I call upon everyone, regardless of party, creed, religion, caste and gender, to continue the struggle to build a just, humane, and democratic Bangladesh. With this appeal, I bid farewell with great optimism,” he said in his farewell address to the nation last night.

Urging all to build a Bangladesh where possibilities are limitless, and dreams have no boundaries, the chief adviser said, over the last 18 months, the people of this country have gradually started to taste democracy, a welfare-oriented governance, freedom of speech, regain the ability to question and criticise power, and the ability to hold it accountable.

Yunus said the just-concluded national election was not merely a transfer of power, but the beginning of a new journey for the country’s democracy.

“We have delivered a festive, free, impartial, peaceful, clean, and credible national election, through which the people have regained their right to vote,” he said, expressing his deep respect and gratitude to those who were behind this achievement.

Yunus paid tribute to the young protesters who took to the streets in July 2024, as well as to those who were injured or lost their lives. “This transformation would not have been possible without their unprecedented sacrifice.”

Reflecting on his tenure, the chief adviser said he and his colleagues have tried to honour the aspiration of the people.

“Where we have succeeded and where we have fallen short, that judgment rests with the people.”

He emphasised that his government placed accountability above political considerations, prioritising the prosecution of crimes against humanity, corruption and systemic irregularities without regard for partisan interests or retribution.

Yunus said that when his administration assumed office, the country’s law and order situation was deeply precarious.

“Police stations were empty, and public confidence had eroded, replaced by fear and uncertainty. Step by step, we have worked to restore stability and rebuild trust,” he said.

“We have initiated administrative, commercial and financial reforms in fragile institutions to ensure that no future government can entrench itself against the will of the people,” the chief adviser said.

Yunus expressed confidence that the people of Bangladesh and all political stakeholders will protect and enrich this democratic trajectory in the days ahead.

On matters of rights, independence and sovereignty, he urged steadfast commitment to building a beautiful Bangladesh for the next generation.

“On the eve of my departure from my duties, I express my heartfelt gratitude to all of you -- the children, teenagers, young people, students, men and women, young and old -- of the country. Please pray for me,” the chief adviser said.