Bangladesh's interim government's Chief Adviser, Dr. Muhammad Yunus, has assured British parliamentarian Rupa Huq that the country’s next general election will be "completely free and fair."

During a meeting at the state guest house Jamuna, Dr. Yunus remarked, “People could not vote in the last three elections. There were a fake parliament, fake MPs, and a fake speaker.” He added, “The whole country has now got its voice back. Their voice was taken away forcibly.”

Huq sought information about the tentative election timeline, government reforms, and political party participation. In response, Prof. Yunus stated that two potential timelines for the next general election are under consideration: December 2025 or mid-2026. “The election date depends on how much reform people want,” he said.

Expressing her interest in the upcoming electoral process, Huq signaled her willingness to return to Bangladesh to observe the election.

The conversation comes in the wake of significant political changes. Deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League retained office in January for a fourth consecutive term through a controversial and widely criticized election boycotted by major political parties. Following mass protests led by students, Sheikh Hasina was ousted on August 5.

Three days later, the interim government led by Dr. Yunus assumed office, pledging to oversee necessary reforms before organizing the next general election.

BOB Post