Religious Adviser Dr. A F M Khalid Hossain said his team has been preparing for departure since the day they assumed office and is ready to hand over power to an elected government. He made the remarks on Thursday afternoon at a meeting held at Dharmarajik Buddhist Monastery auditorium in Basabo, Dhaka, organized to promote the upcoming referendum and encourage voter participation. The event was arranged by the Buddhist Religious Welfare Trust and the Christian Religious Welfare Trust.

Hossain criticized the tendency of leaders in Bangladesh to cling to power but noted that many advisers have already surrendered their diplomatic passports. He emphasized that they are mentally prepared to transfer authority following a free, fair, and acceptable election. He described the February 12 election as a milestone in Bangladesh’s history, asserting that a “yes” vote in the referendum would prevent future autocracy and strengthen democratic balance.

Special assistants to the chief adviser, Ali Riaz and Monir Haider, also spoke, explaining the dual-ballot system and urging citizens to vote “yes” to build a just and humane Bangladesh.