BNP’s Rizvi fears for the future of centrist politics

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi today expressed concerns that centrist politics could face a crisis amid ongoing discussions on whether local or parliamentary elections should be held first.

“Those who are making such statements — or being compelled to do so — raise serious concerns about the future of centrist politics,” he said.

Rizvi made these remarks while addressing a prayer gathering organized by BNP on the occasion of Shab-e-Barat at the party’s Nayapaltan office.

He also spoke in support of Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, stating, “Dr Yunus is an internationally renowned figure who has also been persecuted by Sheikh Hasina. He will act justly, and under his leadership, the interim government will make the right decisions and foster democratic political forces.”

Highlighting the people’s struggle for democratic rights, Rizvi added, “Time and again, the people of this country have been deprived of their rights. The people will decide who will run the country and which politicians will come to power. The ongoing struggle is about restoring these rights to them.”

The BNP leader emphasised the need for a free and fair election, stating, “An election must be held where all parties can participate, and voters can cast their ballots without fear. Ensuring this will be a major responsibility of the interim government.”

He reiterated BNP’s stance on parliamentary elections, saying, “Parliamentary elections are of national importance, as they determine who will wield power. The source of power is the people. Returning that power to them will strengthen democratic forces and facilitate other elections. This is the essence of depoliticisation.”

Rizvi also warned against the dangers of depoliticisation, stating, “Distrusting politicians leads to depoliticisation. Continuous efforts to weaken political institutions have shattered democracy, paving the way for fascism. A weakened political landscape may give rise to extremism, which can emerge from both the left and the right. This must be kept in mind.”

Among the BNP leaders present at the event were Volunteer Affairs Secretary Mir Sarafat Ali Sapu, Religious Affairs Secretary Rafiqul Islam Jamal, Rangpur Division’s Joint Organizing Secretary Prof. Aminul Islam, and Joint Publicity Secretary Asadul Karim Shaheen.