Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus stated that voting is a constitutional right and that exercising it allows citizens to influence the nation’s future.

“Ensuring a free, fair, and participatory election is not solely the government’s responsibility; it is the duty of every citizen,” he said.

Professor Yunus made these remarks in a video message during the inauguration of the ‘Vote Caravan’ campaign on Monday at the South Plaza of the National Parliament. The campaign is designed to provide information to voters ahead of the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election and the 2026 national referendum.

He explained that ten ‘Vote Caravans’ will cover all 64 districts and 300 sub-districts across the country. The vehicles will provide information about the election and referendum and aim to raise awareness about voting rights.

Addressing young voters, women, and first-time voters, Professor Yunus encouraged active participation. “Come forward, ask questions, learn, understand, and vote. Your decisions will shape the country’s future,” he said.

He also emphasised the importance of a safe election environment. “We want an election free from fear and obstacles, where citizens can express their opinions freely. The government is committed to ensuring this environment,” he said.

Regarding the referendum, he said citizens would cast an additional vote for the July national charter, which was formulated following consultations with political parties.

The Vote Caravan was inaugurated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Information and Broadcasting Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Culture Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Faruqi, Senior Secretary of the Election Commission Secretariat Akhtar Ahmed, and Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam.

During the event, Syeda Rizwana Hasan spoke about concerns regarding fear ahead of the 13th parliamentary election and stated that the government would work to keep citizens informed.

Mostofa Sarwar Faruqi also referred to the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, coordinator of the Inquilab platform, describing it as an attempt to intimidate citizens.

The ten Vote Caravans have begun nationwide activities to raise awareness about the 13th parliamentary election and the July national charter referendum.