Staff Reporter :
BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Alamgir on Wednesday called on the interim government to engage in discussions with political parties at the earliest opportunity to understand their expectations and demands.
Speaking at a press briefing at the BNP chairperson’s office in Gulshan, Fakhrul stated, “The interim government should sit in discussion with political parties very soon to know what they want. It should be clear what the interim government wants and what the people want.”
Expressing concern over recent developments, the BNP leader noted the re-emergence of individuals associated with the 1/11 political changeover, a period marked by the military-backed caretaker government in 2007.
“We have not forgotten the memories of 1/11. When those faces appear on the scene again, it raises significant doubts and questions,” Fakhrul remarked, responding to a query regarding his party’s stance on the forthcoming parliamentary elections.
Mirza Fakhrul also alleged that the BNP has been targeted by a smear campaign related to assaults on minority communities and the occupation of their properties. He suggested that these actions are part of a broader effort to depoliticise the country, similar to the attempts during the 1/11 period.
When asked if he perceived any signs of depoliticisation within the current government, Fakhrul responded, “No, I haven’t noticed it. I am just issuing a warning. There are some faces that we fear seeing.”
He pointed out that certain individuals, who had been absent from the political scene, are now prominently featured in the media. “They have suddenly appeared on the front pages… They are spreading their theories and statements. I do not want to name anyone, but I believe this is not good for a healthy democratic process,” he cautioned.
Reflecting on the events of 2007, Fakhrul emphasised, “We have not forgotten those who attempted depoliticisation during the 1/11 government. There were even efforts to cancel and abolish our party completely. We must remember these issues for the sake of our democracy, politics, and the overall betterment of our country.”
Fakhrul further asserted that the public is disillusioned with the allies of the Awami League government, just as they are unwilling to tolerate those who previously sought to disrupt and undermine democracy. “The people want a democratic setup and fair elections. These issues should be taken into consideration,” he added.
Regarding the decision to lift the ban on Jamaat-e-Islami, the BNP leader clarified that the party does not support the banning of any political organisation, as the right to form associations is enshrined in the constitution. However, he stressed that any party must respect the independence and sovereignty of the country.