Cutoff poll time until June 2026

The cutoff time for elections is until June 30 next year, Chief Adviser's press wing said Sunday after latest parleys with political parties who called for unity, election roadmap and reforms.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus "has no intention to stay in office even a day beyond June 30 (2026)", press secretary Shafiqul Alam told journalists after the exchange of views with politicians in the wake of tensions centering the CA's reported exit wish amid tumultuous demonstrations.

The leaders of political parties who met the head of post-uprising government also called for greater transparency ahead of the next general election.

The consultations in groups at the state guesthouse Jamuna began shortly after 5:00 pm on the day.

After the first round of discussions on solution to the ongoing political crisis, Chairman of the Amar Bangladesh (AB) Party Mojibur Rahman Monju shared his reaction with the journalists. "It's not possible to announce an election immediately, as the administrative and other necessary mechanisms are not yet fully functional."

"On behalf of the AB Party, we proposed that the election process should be taken to a more comfortable and stable point. We also suggested preparing a roadmap for the election. If the election can be held by February 5, it would be an ideal timeframe."

Former president of the Communist Party of Bangladesh (CPB) Mujahidul Islam Selim said, "There are conspiracies brewing at home and abroad. Cooperation must yield concrete outcomes."

He underscored the necessity of a healthy political culture and inclusive reforms. "Let the people decide the fundamentals of reform. Political unity and free, fair elections are the key."

President of Nagorik Oikya Mahmudur Rahman Manna urged all parties to put aside differences for the sake of the nation.

"Without unity, success will remain elusive," he warns, adding that a clear electoral roadmap must be announced, preferably no later than June.

Biplobi (Revolutionary) Workers Party General Secretary Saiful Haque called for impartiality and equal treatment for all.

"We must uphold neutrality. Right now, we seem to have multiple governments within one administration - this is unacceptable," he said.

He highlighted a lack of coordination and also confusion over official messaging. "It's hard to tell whether a statement comes from the government or an adviser."

Regarding strategic issues, he stressed that decisions on matters like the humanitarian corridor and the management of Chattogram Port should rest with an elected government. "No anti-nation agreements will be tolerated," he declared.

Chief coordinator of Ganosamhati Andolon Junaid Saki said the interim government must fulfill its responsibilities before stepping down, leaving no room for alternatives.

He stated, "Following the fall of the fascist regime, the interim government has taken on a historic responsibility -- on the one hand, ensuring justice for the perpetrators, and on the other, meeting people's expectations. For decades, the country's people have aspired to elect their true representatives through a free and fair election. The government must see this responsibility through to the end. There is no alternative."

Saki further said the CA highlighted two key issues. "First, the current circumstances are creating numerous obstacles for him to effectively carry out his duties. It has reached a point where he himself is uncertain whether he can continue in this role. He felt that if he cannot perform his duties, there is no point in remaining in office."

"Secondly," Saki added, "the Chief Adviser has recognised public expectations and the trust placed in him by political parties and the people. With that in mind, he is holding discussions with all sides to explore how the current situation can be steered toward a desirable outcome."

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