Retrieval of looted weapons must be completed before polls: CA

Chief Adviser (CA) Professor Muhammad Yunus has directed authorities concerned to ensure swift recovery of all looted weapons ahead of country’s 13th national election, warning that restoring law and order is essential for a credible vote.

Speaking at 119th meeting of National Implementation Committee on Administrative Reorganization at the National Guest House Jamuna, Yunus underscored that the retrieval of illegal arms must be completed before polling day. The session marked the first NICAR meeting convened under the interim administration.

Details of the discussion were later shared by Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam at a media briefing at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka. Alam said election-related issues featured prominently at the meeting, with particular focus on ensuring public safety through the recovery of looted weapons nationwide.

Addressing questions about doubts raised by some quarters over the election, Alam dismissed such concerns, saying the government is well aware of the political background of those making the claims. While affirming the right to free expression, he made clear that the administration’s position remains unchanged.

According to Alam, the election will be held on February 12 as scheduled, with no possibility of alteration.

He added that the government is confident the polls will be conducted smoothly and in an orderly manner, and noted that most citizens are not swayed by misinformation circulating on social media.

Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder also spoke at the briefing, challenging critics who claim the election will not take place. He said such assertions should be backed by clear and logical reasoning, warning that unfounded claims amount to anti-democratic and anti-election propaganda.

Majumder reiterated that the vote will proceed on time, with administrative readiness and security measures being reinforced to ensure a peaceful and fair polling process across the country.