Bangladesh’s interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, said he will not remain in power after the upcoming national elections in April 2026. This statement comes days after Yunus, who was appointed as interim leader in August last year, announced the election dates.
Yunus, 84, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, took charge of the country after a massive student-led protest forced then-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to flee to India. His appointment came at a time when Bangladesh was facing political turmoil.
Speaking at Chatham House in London, Yunus denied any intention of extending his stay in politics after the elections. When asked if he would consider continuing in any political role, Yunus replied, “There was no way,” as quoted by AFP. “I think none of our cabinet members would like to do that, not only me,” he added.
During an address to the nation on Eid al-Adha, Yunus announced that Bangladesh elections would be held in the first half of April 2026. “After reviewing the ongoing reforms related to justice, governance, and the electoral process, I am announcing to the nation today that the next national election will be held on any day in the first half of April 2026,” he said on national television.
Yunus said that facilitating a smooth transition to democratically elected leadership is the primary duty of his administration. He had previously stated that elections would take place prior to June 2026, but mounting political pressure compelled him to provide a more precise schedule. However, the Election Commission hasn’t released the roadmap for the polls.
SHEIKH HASINA INDICTED FOR MASS KILLINGS
Yunus’ remarks come amid a big legal development in Bangladesh. Just a week ago, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was formally indicted by the country’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT). She has been charged of mass murder and other serious crimes.
The indictment is linked to Hasina’s alleged role in the violent suppression of student protests in 2024. The nationwide protests eventually led to her downfall. The ICT, consisting of a three-judge panel, accepted the charges after prosecutors accused Hasina and her former government officials of using brutal force against protesters.
Yunus is currently on an official visit to the United Kingdom. During the visit, he is expected to meet King Charles III and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
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