Only elected govt can resolve crisis

Staff Reporter :

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam stated on Thursday that only a government elected by the people can effectively address the nation’s crises.
“It is difficult to resolve the current challenges in Bangladesh without an elected government,” he remarked while speaking to reporters at Dhaka airport after returning from his visit to London.
In response to a question, Mirza Fakhrul said BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman would return to the country once his legal issues are resolved.
“You are aware of the numerous false and vindictive cases filed against him. He will come back when these cases are either withdrawn or settled in court,” he explained.
When asked about Tarique Rahman’s message for the people, the BNP leader said the acting chairman urged patience.
“Significant progress has been achieved through the efforts of students and the public. To make this progress meaningful, everyone must unite and work towards restoring democracy. The first step towards this goal is preparing for elections,” Fakhrul quoted Tarique as saying.
Addressing another query, Fakhrul dismissed the notion that the BNP prioritizes elections over state reforms.
“The BNP proposed a plan for state reforms two years ago. Holding elections is a step that follows the implementation of these essential reforms,” he clarified.
On Bangladesh-India relations, Fakhrul emphasized the need to address bilateral issues through dialogue.
Responding to remarks by Adviser Nahid Islam, who accused political parties of attempting to portray the interim government as a failure, Fakhrul termed the comments “anti-political.”
“Political parties have been cooperating with the government and continue to do so,” he added.
Reflecting on his London visit, Fakhrul described it as productive, highlighting his discussions with Tarique Rahman, meetings with expatriate Bangladeshis and BNP leaders, and engagements with the media.
“My time in London has been fruitful. I attended various meetings, including discussions with local journalists,” he said.
Fakhrul returned home on a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight at 12:45 PM, accompanied by his wife Rahat Ara Begum, according to BNP media cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan. During his 10-day trip, Fakhrul and Tarique Rahman, along with other BNP leaders, discussed political strategies and the potential travel plans of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia for medical treatment abroad.
Sources revealed that Khaleda Zia, aged 79, might first receive treatment in the UK before traveling to the US for advanced medical care. The BNP has reportedly arranged for her to access specialized treatment at an overseas medical facility.