BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Thursday criticised the interim government for its inability to maintain neutrality in certain cases, urging it to act impartially and address the ongoing crisis in the country.
“We observe that the interim government struggles to remain neutral in some situations. We hope it will fulfill its responsibility by acting impartially to help the nation overcome its current crisis,” Fakhrul said during an event commemorating the 56th martyrdom anniversary of Shaheed Asad at the National Press Club in Dhaka.
Fakhrul accused the ousted Awami League government of depriving citizens of their voting rights over the past 15 years, emphasising the importance of a fair election to allow people to choose their representatives. “If this election process becomes controversial, people will once again be denied their right to vote,” he warned.
Drawing on past experiences, he noted that delays in holding elections often lead to the emergence of external forces. Fakhrul stressed that all political parties agree on the necessity of elections, adding, “Elections are not just about bringing a party to power; they are also a means to restore democratic practices.”
Responding to suggestions to delay elections until reforms are completed, Fakhrul questioned whether the people should wait for years at the cost of their voting rights. “Delaying elections in the name of reforms will only further deprive the people,” he said.
KH/MSU/NMA