BNP questions govt’s sincerity on polls

Staff Reporter :

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has expressed doubts about the interim government’s commitment to holding free and fair national elections, questioning its sincerity in ensuring a truly democratic environment.

Speaking at a discussion organised by Chhatra Dal at the Krishibid Institute auditorium, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir stated that the people of the country desire a return to democracy. However, he noted that even after seven months, the situation remains uncertain due to the government’s delay in scheduling the elections.

“The people of the country want a return to a democratic environment. However, even after seven months, we have not been able to achieve that,” he said. “The interim government claims it is completing some necessary tasks before holding the elections. But in the meantime, doubts have arisen among the people about whether the government is truly sincere about the election.”

Fakhrul also referred to a recent statement by an adviser who reportedly suggested that fascists could participate in the elections if they apologised. He expressed strong opposition to this notion, asserting that the BNP and the people would not accept such an arrangement.

“If they allow fascists to participate in the polls for its own interests, the people and his party will not accept it,” he warned, adding that this move proves the government is trying to accommodate certain elements for its political advantage.

The BNP leader accused the government of employing various strategies to consolidate power, cautioning that such tactics would not succeed in the long run.

He reiterated BNP’s support for new political parties but firmly opposed the idea of parties being created using state resources or government influence.

“This does not mean you can create a party while in government and take advantage of state facilities. This will never be accepted,” he asserted.

Fakhrul urged the interim government to act swiftly and fairly, warning that failure to do so would erode public trust.

“Otherwise, public trust in you will be lost,” he cautioned.

Recalling his earlier warnings about the importance of political neutrality in the interim government, he stated, “When I first pointed out that if the government loses neutrality, another neutral administration will be required, I was criticised. But now, it is being proven.”
He concluded by reaffirming BNP’s stance against authoritarian rule.

“If anyone attempts to destroy democracy and impose a one-party or fascist rule, the people will never accept it,” he stated firmly. Fakhrul’s remarks come amid growing concerns over the upcoming elections and the role of the interim government, setting the stage for intensified political debates in the coming days.