Chief Adviser (CA) Dr Muhammad Yunus on Monday reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring a free, fair and fear-free election, saying the country needs a vote where there is no intimidation or obstruction, only the people’s free and fearless expression of will.

In a video message at the inauguration of ‘Voter-er Gari’ programme at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, Yunus said the government is determined to create an environment that guarantees such an election.

Addressing young people, women voters and first-time voters, he urged them to come forward, ask questions, learn, understand and cast their votes. The future of Bangladesh, he said, will be shaped by their decisions and choices.

The programme marked the launch of 10 “Vote-er Gari” vehicles aimed at nationwide awareness on the upcoming parliamentary election and a referendum. Information and Broadcasting Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki, Senior Secretary of the Election Commission Secretariat Akhtar Ahmed and Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam were present at the event.

In his message, Yunus said Bangladesh is passing through a crucial phase, with a national parliamentary election ahead as well as a referendum on the implementation of the July National Charter. To support these processes, the 10 Vote-er Gari vehicles will travel across all 64 districts and 300 upazilas, taking election and referendum information directly to citizens’ doorsteps, raising awareness about voting rights and spreading the message of democracy.

Describing the initiative, Yunus said the Vote-er Gari is not just a fleet of vehicles but a carrier of the joy and spirit of democracy. It will remind people how important a single vote is and reinforce that participation, not apathy, strengthens democratic institutions.

He stressed that voting rights are not a privilege granted by anyone but a constitutional right. Exercising that right, he said, is how citizens decide the direction of the nation’s future. Ensuring a free, fair and participatory election is not only the responsibility of the government but of every citizen.

Urging voters to make informed choices, Yunus said citizens are the true owners of the country and will decide who governs it over the next five years. He encouraged them to vote thoughtfully and choose honest and capable candidates.

He also reminded voters that this election cycle includes an additional vote in the form of a referendum, urging citizens who support the July Charter to vote yes.

Calling for collective participation, Yunus said the success of this democratic journey depends on everyone. He urged citizens to vote for themselves, for the country, for future generations and for a new Bangladesh.