Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus announced his departure after 18 months in office during a televised address to the nation on Monday, February 16, 2026, at 9:15 p.m. He said his primary task had been to make the country functional again, describing it as the most difficult challenge. Yunus noted that those who had previously exploited the nation fled or went into hiding following the uprising, leaving the administration to rebuild.

He highlighted that the recent referendum and election were held in a festive, nationwide atmosphere reminiscent of Eid, calling it a memorable event in the country’s history. Congratulating both winners and losers of the competitive election, Yunus said that victory and defeat are the essence of democracy. He added that both sides received roughly half of the total votes, emphasizing that even those who lost should take comfort in the trust shown by nearly half of the electorate.

Yunus concluded that a new government would soon assume responsibility, marking the end of the caretaker administration’s 18-month tenure.