NN Online:
BNP Standing Committee Member Dr. Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain on Sunday urged the interim government to arrange the national election by December to ensure what he termed a “graceful exit.”
“We recently met the Chief Adviser and explained why December is the most appropriate time for elections,” he said at a discussion event held at the Jatiya Press Club, organized by Bangladesh Sammilita Peshajibi Parishad to mark the 44th death anniversary of BNP founder and former President Ziaur Rahman.
Dr. Mosharraf warned that any delay in holding the polls would give space to the “cohorts of the deposed regime” to engage in conspiracies. “We’re already seeing signs of such activities,” he claimed.
He emphasized that the interim government would eventually have to step down, and leaving by December would allow it to do so with dignity. “Considering the overall situation, it would be best if the election is held within this year,” he said.
Reaffirming BNP’s commitment to political reforms, he noted that party leader Tarique Rahman had earlier proposed a 31-point reform agenda before the interim administration assumed power. “We are committed to implementing those reforms once we’re in office,” he added.
Dr. Mosharraf also mentioned that BNP will take part in a fresh round of dialogue, starting Tuesday, aimed at building national consensus. “We urge all political parties to agree on the reform process and proceed toward elections. The current national crisis stems from the absence of a democratic election process,” he stated.
He further expressed disappointment over recent remarks made by Chief Adviser Prof. Muhammad Yunus during his Japan visit, where Yunus allegedly stated that only BNP was demanding elections.
“We placed our trust in him when he assumed leadership. But his comment was disheartening. We want to assure him that holding the election by December will be beneficial for all sides,” Mosharraf concluded.
