Listen to the article
Bangladesh’s Interim Leader Warns of Disinformation Threat to Upcoming Elections
Bangladesh’s interim leader Muhammad Yunus has raised alarm over what he describes as a “flood of misinformation” threatening to undermine the country’s critical elections scheduled for February 12, the first since a popular uprising toppled the previous government in 2024.
The 85-year-old Nobel Peace Prize laureate, who has been leading Bangladesh’s caretaker government since August 2024, said he has sought assistance from the United Nations human rights team to combat the disinformation campaign targeting the electoral process.
“There has been a flood of misinformation surrounding the elections,” Yunus told UN rights chief Volker Turk during a telephone call, according to a statement released by his office. “It is coming from both foreign media and local sources.”
The interim leader expressed particular concern about social media platforms being inundated with fabricated content. “They have flooded social media with fake news, rumors and speculation,” Yunus added. “We are concerned about the impact this may have on the elections.”
According to Bangladesh’s press statement, Turk offered the UN’s support in addressing these concerns, though specific measures were not detailed.
Bangladesh has experienced significant political upheaval since August 2024, when a student-led movement successfully overthrew former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, ending her 15-year rule that had grown increasingly autocratic in recent years. Hasina fled the country as protesters stormed government buildings in scenes reminiscent of other popular uprisings across the region.
Following the uprising, Yunus returned from exile at the protesters’ request to lead the caretaker administration as “chief advisor” – a position he has repeatedly stated is temporary. He has committed to stepping down after the February elections.
European Union election observers have characterized the upcoming vote in the Muslim-majority nation of 170 million people as the “biggest democratic process of 2026,” highlighting its significance both regionally and globally. The election represents a pivotal moment for Bangladesh’s democratic future following years of democratic backsliding under Hasina’s government.
Yunus has been candid about the challenges facing the country, stating that he inherited a “completely broken” political system. His administration has prioritized the development of a reform charter that he argues is essential to prevent Bangladesh from returning to authoritarian governance.
A referendum on these proposed constitutional changes will be held concurrently with the general election on February 12. According to Yunus, the reforms aim to strengthen the separation of powers by establishing more robust checks and balances between the executive, judicial, and legislative branches of government.
The disinformation concerns come at a critical juncture for Bangladesh as it attempts to rebuild democratic institutions after years of erosion. Media experts note that false information spreading on platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and TikTok could potentially influence voter behavior or undermine confidence in the electoral process.
The interim government has faced significant challenges in maintaining stability while preparing for elections. Economic pressures, including inflation and unemployment, continue to affect millions of citizens, while the administration works to address institutional corruption that flourished under the previous regime.
International observers will be watching closely to see if Bangladesh can successfully navigate this democratic transition and establish more resilient governance structures that prevent the consolidation of power that characterized the previous administration.
Fact Checker
Verify the accuracy of this article using The Disinformation Commission analysis and real-time sources.
9 Comments
Disinformation is a global challenge, and it’s good to see Bangladesh taking it seriously. Protecting the integrity of elections should be a top priority for all democracies.
As a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Yunus carries a lot of credibility on this issue. I hope the Bangladeshi government and the UN are able to effectively counter the disinformation campaign ahead of the upcoming elections.
Agreed, Yunus’ stature and experience make his warning all the more important to heed. Proactive steps to ensure a free and fair election will be crucial for Bangladesh’s democratic development.
Yunus is right to be concerned about the impact of disinformation on Bangladesh’s elections. Voters need accurate, unbiased information to make informed decisions at the ballot box.
Disinformation is a serious threat to the integrity of elections. I’m glad to see the Bangladeshi government taking steps to combat it with UN assistance. Maintaining public trust in the electoral process is critical for democracy.
Yunus’ warning about a ‘flood of misinformation’ is concerning. Social media platforms have a responsibility to curb the spread of fake news and rumors, especially around elections. Rigorous fact-checking and content moderation will be key.
You’re right, social media platforms need to do more to combat election-related disinformation. Allowing the spread of fabricated content can undermine the democratic process.
The surge of fake news and rumors on social media is a worrying trend that undermines public trust. I hope the Bangladeshi government and the UN can find effective ways to combat this problem before the elections.
Absolutely. Tackling disinformation requires a multi-pronged approach involving governments, social media platforms, and civil society. Vigilance and cooperation will be essential.