CA Yunus: Any attempt to disrupt peace will be dealt with firmly

Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus on Monday said the interim government is fully prepared for the upcoming parliamentary elections and referendum, warning that any attempt to disrupt peace would be dealt with firmly.

He made the remarks during a farewell meeting with Tracey Ann Jacobson, the United States Chargé d’Affaires to Bangladesh, at the state guest house Jamuna. During the meeting, the two discussed preparations for the February parliamentary elections and referendum, as well as bilateral issues including trade, civil aviation, labour reforms, and overall Bangladesh–US relations.

Ambassador Jacobson, who is concluding her tenure after a year marked by significant developments, praised Professor Yunus’s leadership over the past 17 months and reaffirmed US support for the upcoming elections. She expressed confidence in Bangladesh’s efforts to hold free, fair, and peaceful polls.

Reiterating his government’s commitment, Yunus said all necessary preparations are underway to ensure the success of both the election and the referendum. He emphasized that maintaining peace and stability remains a top priority during the electoral period.

Jacobson also commended the interim government’s reform initiatives, particularly the newly enacted labour law, describing it as exceptional and noting that it could help attract increased foreign direct investment. She further praised the government for withdrawing 45 out of 46 cases filed against labour leaders during the previous administration.

In response, the chief adviser described the new labour ordinance as an “excellent law,” adding that leading labour activists have welcomed the reforms and Bangladesh’s recent ratification of International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions, which he said reflect the government’s commitment to international labour standards.