Bangladesh’s interim government and Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus have publicly endorsed a ‘Yes’ vote in the upcoming referendum on institutional reforms. Following criticism that such support could compromise the administration’s neutrality, the Chief Adviser’s press wing issued a clarification on January 18, 2026. It stated that the endorsement aligns with the government’s reform mandate and democratic accountability, arguing that silence in a national crisis would signal a lack of leadership rather than neutrality.

The clarification explained that the interim government was formed after a mass uprising to restore stability and democratic credibility, not merely to manage daily affairs or hold elections. The reform package, developed through consultations with political parties, civil society, professionals, and youth over the past eighteen months, reflects this mission. The press wing added that international democratic practices allow government leaders to take positions on major constitutional or institutional changes.

It further emphasized that the referendum’s legitimacy depends on voters’ freedom to decide, not on leaders’ silence. The interim government has no electoral interest in the outcome, and its outreach aims to clarify reform issues and counter misinformation, ensuring informed public participation.