Don’t allow the return of autocracy

Urging leaders of all political parties to remain united, BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman yesterday said they must not take any steps that would allow the return of autocracy or its followers to the country.

"Let us uphold the unity with which we once ousted autocracy. Moving forward, we must keep this unity and work together to establish the democracy that the people of this country aspire to," he said.

"Through discussions and collective efforts, we will implement the necessary reforms that the people expect," he also said while addressing an iftar party virtually.

Leaders of the 12-party alliance hosted the iftar event in the capital's Malibagh.

Tarique urged political leaders to prioritise unity at any cost.

"There will be differences in opinions, but we must sit together and discuss. We will try to avoid anything that could, in any way, allow the return of autocracy or its followers. This should be our commitment, our pledge," he said.

The BNP leader also said that there are ideological differences among political parties.

"We do not all share the same ideology, and there are some disagreements. But there is one thing that unites us all -- Bangladesh, its people, and democracy. There is no division on this basic issue."

Expressing concern over the way reforms and elections are being pitted against each other, Tarique said, "To an ordinary citizen, democracy means one thing -- elections. A system that ensures free and fair voting without fear is what we define as democracy."

"But now, reform and elections are being set against each other," he said.

"I personally believe that reforms cannot be considered complete. Reform is a continuous process..." he added.