Amid rising political tensions and speculation about his possible resignation, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus met with leaders from 20 political parties on Sunday at the State Guest House Jamuna to discuss the country’s fragile political landscape. The meeting was held in two phases, bringing together secular and religious leaders across the spectrum, who voiced both support for Yunus and concern over the worsening national situation.
Nagorik Oikya President Mahmudur Rahman Manna quoted the Chief Adviser as saying that Bangladesh is in a deep crisis, accusing India of attempting to destabilize the country. Yunus reportedly stressed the need for national unity to resist external interference. He hinted at a potential election timeline—saying polls could be held in December with limited reforms or by June if broader changes are made—asserting that elections would not be delayed beyond June.
Manna revealed that Yunus had considered resigning after a contentious Advisory Council meeting but was physically stopped by other advisers from submitting his resignation. Despite this, Yunus expressed commitment to guiding the country through the crisis and even offered to pre-sign a resignation letter to ensure timely elections.
Several political leaders echoed the need for unity and reforms. CPB’s Mujahidul Islam Selim warned of conspiracies from internal and external forces, while Saiful Haque of the Biplobi Workers Party urged Yunus to stay on, likening the situation to not changing the boatman mid-river. Ganosamhati Andolon’s Zonayed Saki emphasized trust-building and demanded a clear election roadmap.
In both phases of the meeting, participants pushed for transparency, neutrality, and reforms to guarantee free and fair elections. Religious leaders from Islami Andolon Bangladesh, Hefazat-e-Islam, and other Islamic parties also expressed their concerns and called for inclusive decision-making.
The talks came a day after BNP, the National Citizen Party (NCP), and Jamaat-e-Islami also held discussions with Yunus, underscoring the urgency of national consensus as the country stands at a political crossroads.
