BNP Secretary General Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has stated that the party has not received any clear directives from the interim government regarding the forthcoming elections, casting doubt on the nation's democratic trajectory.
Speaking on Thursday (27 February) afternoon at BNP’s extended meeting in the LD Hall premises of the National Parliament Complex, he underscored the uncertainty prevailing in the political landscape following the ousting of Sheikh Hasina on 5 August.
"The people of this country, with great expectations, anticipated a transformation after the fascist regime of Sheikh Hasina came to an end and she fled the country. They believed their voting rights would be restored swiftly, allowing them to elect their representatives freely. However, it is with deep regret that we find ourselves devoid of any concrete assurances in this regard," Fakhrul said in his welcome address.
He further highlighted the BNP’s relentless struggle for democracy and the sacrifices made in pursuit of people's rights.
"You have witnessed the immense sacrifices the Liberal Democratic Party and BNP have had to endure in our battle to uphold democracy and secure the people's rights," he remarked.
Expressing grave concerns over the nation's economic condition, Fakhrul pointed out the soaring prices of essential commodities and the deteriorating law and order situation.
He noted that educational institutions, particularly universities, were struggling to maintain a conducive academic environment.
He also accused certain quarters of attempting to erase the contributions of eminent scientists, litterateurs, and intellectuals from undivided Bengal, particularly those hailing from the eastern part of the region, by renaming institutions and disregarding their legacy.
"We have successfully ousted fascism, we have removed Sheikh Hasina. Now, we wait in anticipation for the fulfilment of the people's aspirations—those envisioned by our party’s founder, Ziaur Rahman—of transforming Bangladesh into a modern and prosperous nation. However, conspiracies persist to obstruct democracy, both from within and beyond our borders. Certain groups are misinterpreting facts and misleading the public," he asserted.
BNP’s acting chairman, Tarique Rahman, chaired the extended meeting virtually, while party chairperson Khaleda Zia was also set to join as the chief guest via video conference.
