Bangladesh’s interim government announced that the size of its advisory council will remain unchanged during the election period, according to Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam. Following a council meeting on Thursday, Alam stated that all preparations for the upcoming national election have been completed and that the interim administration aims to ensure a peaceful vote.

During the meeting, three laws were approved, the value-added tax on metro rail services was lifted, and import duties on dates were reduced. Bangladesh also formally recognized the island nation of Grenada. Alam noted that despite around 2,000 protests over the past 16 months, no live ammunition was used. However, he warned that future road blockades over political demands would face strict action. The resignations of two student advisers will take effect with the election schedule announcement.

Additionally, the government announced financial assistance of 2 million taka for each family of the 36 victims of the Milestone tragedy, and 500,000 taka plus free medical care for the injured.