WE strongly echo the bold statement of BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman, who said, “We can’t allow the interim government to fail.” His words remind us of the voice of ‘Major Zia’ in the turbulent March of 1971, declaring, “I revolt,” in protest against the brutal attack by the Pakistani army on unarmed Bangladeshis.
Likewise, we must remember the blood that stained the streets across the country in July this year, shed in the fight to end the inhumane autocratic rule of Sheikh Hasina, and we must never forget it. Therefore, we have no choice but to realise the dreams of the martyrs of 2024.
This newspaper reported that during a grand rally in the capital on Tuesday, marking International Democracy Day, Tarique Rahman virtually joining it said we must keep in mind that the failure of this government would mean the failure of all of us — the pro-democracy people of Bangladesh.
He added that the interim government is working to restore order following the downfall of Sheikh Hasina’s “fascist and despotic regime.” Although Hasina has fled the country, Tarique claimed that her supporters and other “evil forces” continue to challenge the interim government from within the administration or through political activities.
It is widely recognised that Sheikh Hasina first assumed power in 2008 through an election subtly influenced by both internal and external forces. In 2013, she retained power following another election, which was essentially voterless. In 2018, Hasina claimed another victory, but the election was allegedly held the night before the actual Election Day.
Most recently, in 2024, she continued her reign after another election, widely labelled a “dummy election” by many observers. These three flawed elections turned Hasina into a full-fledged dictator who did not hesitate to order her loyal forces to shoot the protesters challenging her illegal hold on power and demanding her resignation.
On August 5, Hasina finally fled the country, but she left behind chaos in every sector of the nation. As a result, we now require thorough reforms, and these reforms need time. We urge all political parties to give time this interim government.
Meanwhile, the interim government, led by Nobel Laureate Prof. Dr. Yunus, has announced six reform commissions, each led by distinguished citizens.
Additionally, another committee is working on a ‘white paper’ to document the economic damage caused by the illegal Hasina regime.
These monumental tasks must be carried out with the utmost care and precision, no matter how much time they require. The BNP and other political parties must remain patient until the reforms are completed so that a free and fair election can be held.