‘Announce outline for national election’
BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman has urged the interim government to announce a roadmap for the next national election, alongside short-term and long-term reform proposals.
"If the interim government's action plan and direction are clear to democratically minded people, their doubts and suspicions will fade," said Tarique while virtually addressing a Labour Day rally in front of the party's central office in Nayapaltan.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. "BNP believes that both reforms and elections are necessary. Announce the outline for the upcoming national election and, at the same time, complete the necessary reforms and prepare the law enforcement agencies, the judiciary, and the Election Commission."
Tarique warned that a faction within the government may attempt to create a conflict between elections and reforms to provoke divisions among anti-fascist political forces.
"We urge the interim government to stay vigilant. A faction within the interim government is intentionally trying to sow discord among anti-fascist political parties by manufacturing a confrontation between reforms and elections."
The BNP leader said the continuation of democratic processes are necessary to prevent future fascist regimes.
"The BNP and other democratic political parties have so far extended unconditional support to the interim government to establish an accountable government elected by the popular vote in a fascism-free Bangladesh. But the people believe that it is unreasonable to provide indefinite support to the interim government.
"No fugitive autocrat should be allowed to rise again in this country. That's why it is essential to establish a government accountable to the people."
Tarique said that the rise of fascism happens when constitutional or legal guidelines are not followed.
"The hidden desire of any individual or group to extend power without elections should not be allowed to lead the state or government toward fascism. To prevent this, it is necessary to establish a national parliament and an accountable government elected directly by the people."
He said a government under special circumstances may not be illegal, but it can never serve as a substitute for a government elected by direct vote.
Tarique criticised the interim government for reportedly deciding, in principle, to allow the delivery of humanitarian aid to Myanmar's war-torn Rakhine state through Bangladesh, without public consultation.
"Such a sensitive issue, which concerns national sovereignty and independence, was decided without informing the people. Even political parties representing the people were not consulted.
"I do not wish to debate now whether such a decision can or should be made without public knowledge."
He said the freedom-loving people of Bangladesh believe such decisions should come from the people and be passed through a parliament elected by direct vote.
"This is the standard practice in democratic nations around the world, and we clearly state this—do not serve foreign interests."
Tarique urged the interim government to prioritise the welfare of the people above all.
"Whether it's Myanmar, India, Pakistan, or any other country, Bangladesh must come first. This must be our only goal."
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