The interim government has no right to remain in power for five years, said BNP Standing Committee Member Selima Rahman yesterday.
“We want fair elections. The home affairs adviser has said the country wants this government to stay for five years. But we know what the people really want,” Selima said at a special council session of the Central Executive Committee of the Bangladesh Diploma Medical Association in the capital.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star’s Google News channel. “This is an interim government, and it is not meant to take on long-term responsibilities,” she added.
Her remarks came in response to a statement made by Home Adviser Jahangir Alam Chowdhury in Sunamganj on Thursday, where he claimed that people are urging the government to stay for five more years.
Selima said BNP remains committed to restoring the people’s right to vote. “That is why BNP has never craved power. Despite oppression and persecution, not a single activist has fled. The people still have confidence in us,” she said.
She also stressed that BNP does not fear elections. “Even in opposition, we have never been afraid. Our goal is to restore people’s fundamental rights, and the first step is to hold an election.”
Meanwhile, Biplobi Workers Party General Secretary Saiful Huq also raised concerns over the home adviser’s comment, questioning the intention behind it.
Speaking at a human chain in front of the Jatiya Press Club, he said, “Is this statement a reflection of the government’s stance? What is your agenda? What is the real objective?”
He urged the interim government to clarify its position and warned that such statements could undermine political trust and stability.
“If the adviser is voicing the true intention of the government, Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus should come forward and state their official position,” Saiful said.
“What you are doing in the name of the people will create confusion between the government and political parties and increase distrust. As a result, whatever progress we could have made may be at risk of being undone,” he said.
He also called upon the chief adviser to warn the members of the advisory council of the interim government to refrain from making unguarded comments.
“If they defy the warning, dismiss them. If necessary, appoint new responsible individuals,” he said.
On behalf of his party, Saiful also demanded that the government arrange the next parliamentary election by December this year.