BNP on same page with interim govt on reforms but election needed within reasonable time: Tarique Rahman

The BNP is on the same page with the interim government regarding state reform activities, the party’s acting chairperson Tarique Rahman said today (25 November).

He, however, noted that no reform will bear any fruits if it fails to fulfil the daily needs of the people.

He made the remarks while addressing the annual general meeting of the Dhaka Union of Journalists at the National Press Club in the morning.

Speaking on the occasion, the BNP leader also spoke about his party’s position on holding elections.

“The BNP thinks that free and fair elections need to be arranged within a reasonable time frame along with reforms. No government can stay in power without the public’s vote,” he said.

“The interim government has already reconstituted the Election Commission. We believe this is a significant step towards forming an elected parliament and government, with representatives chosen through the people’s votes,” Tarique added.

Tarique said it is a kind of reality that the recent mass uprising did not take place just for an election.

“On the other hand, another harsh reality is that the fugitive dictator managed to establish fascism in the country by repeatedly forming governments without elections, rendering the people politically powerless. So, an election is certainly a key issue in establishing people’s rights in democratic political practice,” he observed.

The politician also said the ousted Awami League would not be able to return to politics in Bangladesh.

“The Awami League and democracy are enemies of each other. Multifaceted conspiracies are being hatched to obstruct our ongoing democracy. The ousted power will never be able to return to Bangladesh’s politics,” he said.