BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir stressed neutrality as pivotal for the interim government’s role in upcoming elections.
In an exclusive interview with BBC Bangla, Mirza Fakhrul asserted that the interim government, led by Professor Muhammad Yunus, must uphold strict neutrality to facilitate credible elections.
He warned that failure to do so would necessitate further discussions on political neutrality and governance.
Mirza Fakhrul reiterated his party's stance favouring early elections, ideally between July and August 2025, and underscored the feasibility of organising polls within this timeframe if reforms are prioritised.
He added that the BNP has consistently advocated for early elections, stating, "It is possible to hold elections by June or July, provided there is political will."
However, Mirza Fakhrul refrained from committing to a specific deadline, acknowledging the need for consensus among all political stakeholders.
Reforms and Interim Government’s Role
Responding to Professor Yunus's intentions to implement sweeping reforms before elections, Mirza Fakhrulexpressed scepticism, remarking that such extensive measures could take a decade.
"Reforms are an ongoing process," he noted, referencing the BNP’s 31-point plan for national reconstruction, which includes constitutional amendments, judicial reforms, and restructuring the bureaucracy.
Mirza Fakhrul also questioned the interim government’s capacity to carry out constitutional amendments without parliamentary approval.
He remarked, "Parliamentary consensus is essential for constitutional changes, and without an elected parliament, such reforms remain impractical."
Concerns Over Emerging Political Dynamics
The BNP leader voiced concerns over the involvement of student leaders, who spearheaded the July uprising, in forming a new political party.
He cautioned against including their representatives in the interim government, asserting that such participation would compromise its neutrality.
"A government with political affiliations cannot maintain impartiality," he warned, adding that existing political parties would not accept elections under such circumstances.
BNP’s Cooperation with Interim Government
While clarifying his party’s collaborative approach towards the interim government, Mirza stated that BNP has consistently engaged with the administration and provided constructive feedback.
"We have refrained from launching protests against the government thus far," he remarked while urging the administration to expedite the electoral process for the nation’s benefit.
On Constitutional Reform Proposals
Mirza Fakhrul acknowledged the constitutional reform commission’s recent proposals, including the potential removal of secularism and socialism as state principles in favour of pluralism.
While reserving detailed comments, he mentioned that the BNP’s internal committee is thoroughly analysing the drafts before releasing its official stance.
As the political landscape evolves, the BNP continues to champion its democratic credentials, highlighting its historical role in introducing multi-party democracy and institutionalising caretaker governments in Bangladesh.
"Our commitment to democracy is unwavering," Mirza Fakhrul concluded.
