Bangladesh Seeks Full Commonwealth Support Ahead of February General Election
Dhaka, November 24, 2025: Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Professor Muhammad Yunus, has requested full support from the Commonwealth for the country’s upcoming general election, scheduled for the first half of February.
During a meeting with Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey at the state guest house Jamuna on Monday, the Chief Adviser said, “We need your support in our democratic transition as well as in the upcoming general election.”
Professor Yunus thanked the Secretary-General for her strong interest in Bangladesh’s electoral process and reaffirmed the Interim Government’s commitment to holding a free, fair, credible and inclusive election. He said the government is working to ensure a peaceful and festive atmosphere for voters across the country.
Secretary-General Botchwey assured him that the Commonwealth would extend full support during both the election and the post-election transition. She highlighted the strength of the 56-member bloc, which includes countries from the G7 and G20, and encouraged Bangladesh to draw on those shared resources and experiences.
She noted that her visit included meetings with key stakeholders, including the Chief Justice, the Law Adviser, the Foreign Affairs Adviser and the Chief Election Commissioner. “I’m very hopeful about the future of the country,” she said.
Botchwey confirmed that the Commonwealth is preparing to deploy multiple observer missions in the lead-up to polling day.
The discussion also covered youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, and expanding social business initiatives. Both sides spoke about advancing the “three-zero vision,” which aims to reduce unemployment, cut carbon emissions and fight inequality.
The meeting reflects the Commonwealth’s growing engagement in Bangladesh’s political transition, as the country moves toward what is expected to be one of its most closely watched elections in years.
