People will have to take to streets for voting rights
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protect it. If needed, we have to fight once more for the country and the people. Let us unite in the days ahead.”
Fakhrul also criticised a section of people for creating confusion through their statements.
“Some people, especially those who are in responsible positions, are making misleading and provocative statements. Stop confusing people. Enough is enough, we suffered greatly and shed our blood.”
About the national polls, the BNP leader said, “We want to hold a peaceful election where people can cast their votes freely and elect their candidates as per their choice. And those elected will bring changes in the governance system.”
The BNP does not want to take revenge, said Fakhrul, adding that it wants to build a new Bangladesh with all.
Mentioning 15 years of party’s struggle, the BNP secretary general said its leaders and activists were subjected to immense oppression, and false cases were filed against them.
“Even now, our party activists have to appear before the court. But many try to say that the BNP cannot do anything. But the situation [after August 5] has arisen because of our 15 years of struggle.”
Regarding the reforms, Fakhrul said discussions are being held in this connection. “Do you understand what reform means? I don’t understand. But I only understand that reform means some changes.”
“What does change mean? It has to be ensured that I can cast my vote, and people’s issues are discussed in parliament.”
In another development, the BNP yesterday held meetings with leaders of Nationalist Democratic Movement (NDM) and Gono Odhikar Parishad (Faruk-Jaman faction) at the party chairperson’s office in Gulshan.
The meetings focused on the current political situation, elections, and reforms, according to the BNP.
Leaders of the three parties said the chief adviser should discuss with political parties before announcing the election.
“We were not aware of the indication of election time made by the chief adviser. This was not discussed with any of us,” said Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, BNP standing committee member, while briefing reporters after the meeting.
“We are unaware of the reason behind the extended timeframe for the election. We don’t find any justification for it.”
Highlighting the importance of timely polls, Khasru said, “The BNP believes that the people of Bangladesh are eagerly awaiting the upcoming election, which is important.”
NDM Chairman Bobby Hajjaj said, “We want to see the election held within a logical time. We expect a clear roadmap from the interim government.
“There is no need for delays regarding the election. No government can make significant decisions without the people’s mandate. It’s not just about the election date but also about the time needed to complete the essential tasks,” he added.
Faruk Hasan, acting member secretary of Gono Odhikar Parishad, said the timeframe given by the chief adviser is unclear.