Kuala Lumpur, Aug 15 (V7N) – Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus has warned that if Bangladesh holds elections without first ensuring justice and implementing reforms for the massacres committed during the recent uprising, the country risks sliding back into its old political crises.

In an interview with Singapore-based Channel News Asia (CNA) in Kuala Lumpur, Dr. Yunus stressed that his interim government is committed to organizing an “acceptable and festive” national election. He noted that most of the goals set when he assumed office have nearly been achieved, adding that the government has no intention of remaining in power after the polls.

“Our main goal is to fulfill the aspirations of the nation in the post-uprising period,” he said, identifying justice for the massacres, institutional reforms, and free and fair elections as the three top priorities.

Responding to the question of which should come first—elections or reforms—Dr. Yunus said:

“If we start with elections, then we don’t need reforms or justice. Because once elections are held, everything will end up in the hands of the elected. If we skip justice and reforms, the natural outcome will be a return to the old problems and the reintroduction of a fascist regime. That approach will not establish the rule of law.”

On foreign policy, Dr. Yunus said Bangladesh maintains good relations with Pakistan and China and aims to strengthen ties with India as well. He expressed his determination to develop India’s northeastern ‘Seven Sisters’ region, along with Nepal and Bhutan, into a robust, integrated economic zone.

END/SMA/AJ