Former Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Veena Sikri, has raised concerns over the recent announcement by Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser to the interim government of Bangladesh, declaring national elections will be held in the first half of April 2026. Sikri described the move as “controversial” and criticized the decision for being made without consultation with key political stakeholders.
Speaking to ANI, Sikri noted, “This announcement is controversial for several reasons. Some political parties have opposed it. Even the BNP (Bangladesh Nationalist Party) wanted the elections by December. Yunus has taken this decision without consulting the parties.” She further questioned the legitimacy of reforms proposed by an interim government, stressing, “He is not a constitutional government, so there is no reason for such a government to do reforms.”
She also underlined the importance of holding early elections to restore democratic governance and expressed concern about the role of the Bangladesh Army, which has yet to comment on the announcement.
Sikri pointed out that Yunus cannot effectively lead a neutral caretaker government, stating, “His government includes political party representatives, including members from Islami Andolan Bangladesh. This raises serious questions about the neutrality of the caretaker setup.”
On June 6, Yunus addressed the nation via state broadcaster BTV, stating, “The next national elections will be held sometime in the first half of April 2026. Based on this announcement, the Election Commission will provide a detailed roadmap in due course.”
The announcement marks a pivotal moment in Bangladesh’s political landscape, following the collapse of the Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League government in August 2024. However, the lack of consensus and concerns over impartiality may cast a shadow over the upcoming electoral process.
