BNP Standing Committee member Major (Retd.) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed has asserted that, through dialogue with political parties, BNP believes it is feasible to hold elections within the next six months under the supervision of an interim government.
Speaking on Sunday (24 November) at a memorial event held at the Dhaka Reporters’ Unity (DRU) to mark the 35th death anniversary of Major (Retd.) MA Jalil, Sector Commander during the Liberation War, Major Hafiz expressed concerns about the fragility of unelected governments.
He remarked, "Until an elected government assumes power, the state will remain weak, struggling daily to manage diverse demands it cannot resolve."
The event, organised by the Barisal Division Association, was presided over by its President, Iqbal Hossain Forkan.
Major Hafiz, addressing the audience as the chief guest, reiterated BNP’s demand for a government accountable to the people, stating, "We desire a government that is answerable to its citizens. The political arena remains open—student communities should form parties and contest elections in a free environment. Whoever the people entrust with governance, we shall respect that mandate."
Referring to political reforms, he commented, "Reforms are welcome, but they are a continuous process. While Bangladesh exists, reforms will persist. But should the people wait indefinitely? For 17 years, BNP has been fighting to establish voting rights for the citizens."
Highlighting the sacrifices made in the pursuit of democracy, Major Hafiz added, "The essence of democracy lies in the right to vote. The inability to exercise this right has led to years of struggle. We hope the current government realises this. Dr Yunus is a source of national pride and global acclaim. We anticipate a timely election, but such timing cannot stretch to four or five years. Many youths have given their lives, and many have gone missing to restore voting rights. Any delays in establishing democracy would be intolerable."
Reflecting on the revolutionary upheaval earlier this year, he stated, "In July and August, the student community and opposition parties, including BNP, demonstrated that Bengalis are a brave nation. This struggle forced the fascist government to flee. We hope that no one can impose such tyranny upon us again."
Major Hafiz urged vigilance against external interference, warning, "This revolution, aimed at eradicating discrimination and transforming the nation into a genuine democracy, must not be lost. Every citizen must play their part to ensure it is not thwarted by conspiracies from neighbouring states."
The event was attended by notable dignitaries, including BNP National Executive Committee Vice-President Advocate Zainul Abedin, BNP Chairperson's Advisor Moazzem Hossain Alal, Advocate Mujibur Rahman Sarwar, and several leaders of the organising committee, such as Acting General Secretary Shahabuddin Reza, Nurur Rahman Jahangir, Manjur Hossain Isa, Farid Uddin Bhuiyan, Kamal Uddin Ahmed, Abdul Hakim, Khaleda Khanam, and Zahirul Alam Iqbal.
