BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has remarked that the interim government is unelected and lacks a mandate, urging the necessity of completing reforms and holding elections within a reasonable period.
Speaking as the chief guest at a discussion meeting held on Monday (18 November) at the National Press Club Auditorium to mark the 48th death anniversary of Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhasani, Fakhrul stressed that failure to hold timely elections may lead to a perception that the interim government intends to stay in power.
The discussion was organised by the BNP's National Committee for Observing the Death Anniversary of Maulana Bhasani.
Praising the contribution of students in completing the democratic movement of the last one and a half decades, Fakhrul expressed deep appreciation and gratitude for their actions.
"Though the BNP has been engaged in protests for 15 years, it was the students who scored the final goal. They are the strikers, the young vanguard who bravely faced bullets. There must never be a distance between the students and us," he stated.
Addressing BNP leaders, Fakhrul added, "You too have endured hardship, but you did not stand firm as Saeed did. That was the turning point in Sheikh Hasina's downfall."
Fakhrul further stressed the urgency of holding a national election and implementing reforms.
"Students are speaking out, and they will continue to do so. We must act prudently and from experience to say that a swift election is essential for the nation. The longer this type of government remains in power, the more problems will arise, for it is not an elected government. The BNP has also called for reforms, which must happen within a reasonable timeframe to bring about societal change," he added.
He emphasised the importance of vigilance during the current political shift in the country, cautioning against actions that could lead to instability.
"We are passing through a critical juncture," Fakhrul said.
"Yesterday, the chief adviser addressed the nation. While many felt hopeful, I was somewhat disappointed. I had hoped that he would use all his wisdom to identify the problems and outline a framework for elections."
Fakhrul reiterated the importance of elections, noting that they would resolve half of the country's issues, regardless of whether the BNP assumes power.
"Those seeking to harm Bangladesh, disrupt stability, or incite conflict will be forced to step back if the government has the support of the people," Mirza Fakhrul said.
He affirmed, "We do want reforms, and we shall carry them out. Proceed in a manner that is effective and acceptable to all. We have not posed any obstacles thus far and have continued to offer our support."
Highlighting the persistence of authoritarian influences within the Secretariat, Fakhrul questioned the feasibility of reforms.
"How will you reform? Who will implement these reforms? Many bureaucrats complicit in the authoritarian regime still hold positions. They have amassed crores of takas through corruption. We see no actions being taken against them. Make these changes visible," he further said.
