Election Will Be Held Before February 15
The Chief Advisor’s Press Secretary, Shafiqul Alam, has confirmed that the final decision regarding a national referendum rests entirely with the Chief Advisor, but emphasized that the general election will take place before February 15, regardless of the outcome.
Shafiqul Alam made these remarks today (Friday) while concluding the award ceremony for the ‘Mindbridge & Knowledge Competition 2025,’ organized by the July Konna Foundation at Noakhali Science and Technology University (NSTU).
Regarding the election timeline, Shafiqul Alam stated: “Whatever decision is taken [on the referendum], the election will be held before February 15. No power can delay it.”
Responding to Political Demands
Addressing the demands and opinions voiced by various political parties on the referendum issue, the Press Secretary said the government does not view them as threats.
He added: “Various political parties have expressed their views. We do not see this as a threat. The Chief Advisor will do what is best for the nation. Furthermore, the court will announce the date for Sheikh Hasina’s trial on November 13.”
Acknowledging Women’s Role in the Uprising
Shafiqul Alam also highlighted the crucial role of women in the political landscape, particularly during the recent mass uprising:
“In the overthrow of the autocrat and the mass uprising, men and women stood shoulder-to-shoulder on the streets to protest. Now, women are not lagging behind. They are representing in all spheres.”
The event at NSTU was organized by the July Konna Foundation to encourage the development of knowledge and talent among the youth. The competition was presided over by the Foundation’s President, Jannatul Naim Promi, and attended by NSTU Vice-Chancellor Dr. Muhammad Ismail and Additional Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Ismail as chief patron and special guest, respectively.
