On Monday, Yunus spoke by telephone with Sergio Gor, the United States’ Special Envoy for South and Central Asia, to brief Washington on the deteriorating security situation and the government’s plans to restore democratic normalcy. During the conversation, Yunus assured the U.S. envoy that Bangladesh’s general elections would be held on time, setting 12 February as the polling date, despite the ongoing turmoil.
The call comes against the backdrop of escalating violence that has shaken the country’s political and social fabric. Bangladesh has witnessed a series of deadly and destabilizing incidents, including the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, identified as a key leader of the 2024 uprising, attacks on newspaper offices, episodes of mob violence, and an assault targeting the residence of the Indian High Commissioner. These developments have raised serious concerns about law and order, governance, and the interim administration’s ability to contain unrest.
Yunus, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate now heading the interim government as chief adviser, has come under increasing scrutiny both domestically and internationally. Critics argue that the situation has slipped beyond his control, while allies and observers abroad are pressing for clarity on the political roadmap. According to officials, pressure from the United States has intensified in recent weeks, focusing on the need for stability, democratic continuity and credible elections.
Following his conversation with Gor, Yunus reiterated his position publicly through a post on X, stating that Bangladeshis have waited a long time to exercise their voting rights, which he said were denied under a previous authoritarian government. He emphasized that the interim administration’s objective is to conduct free, fair and peaceful elections, aimed at restoring public confidence in the democratic process.
The United States, closely monitoring the situation, is reportedly concerned about the broader regional implications of prolonged instability in Bangladesh, including risks to diplomatic missions, economic interests and South Asian security dynamics. Yunus’ outreach to Washington signals an effort to reassure key international partners at a time when confidence in the interim government is under strain.
As Bangladesh remains gripped by violence and political flux, the promise of timely elections has emerged as a central test for Yunus and his administration. Whether the February polls can be held as planned, and whether they will succeed in easing tensions and restoring stability, will shape not only the country’s immediate future but also its standing on the global stage.
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