FROM PAGE 16

an event in London, UK.

The BNP leader questioned the frequent usage of the term “revolution” in reference to Bangladesh’s recent political turnover.

“Nowadays, there’s much talk about fulfilling the aspirations of the July Revolution and the blood of the martyrs to build a Bangladesh free of inequality and based on the rule of law. There’s no disagreement on this.

“Revolution means complete change -- a total transformation of a society, an economic system, or a social system.”

He went on to ask, “Has such a revolution happened in Bangladesh?”

“In simple terms, it was a ‘democratic mass uprising’ involving students, political parties, social groups, and people from all walks of life. The goal was to reclaim their constitutional and democratic rights.”

Addressing young leaders, Salahuddin said, “To build a state with good governance, wisdom and experience are crucial. I urge the new generation to take time to acquire that wisdom, expertise, and experience.

“The future state, the future Bangladesh, will wait for this young generation, who have fought for democracy.”

He said the people did not participate in a mass uprising with an agenda to completely change the constitution and aspirations for a social revolution.

The BNP leader said his party has acted as a protector of democracy and the constitution, standing by the people.

“So, if the people want to trust the BNP and any group views this public trust as opposition, then we will consider those who see the BNP as an adversary today to be against democracy.”

He said BNP’s 31-point reform agenda, announced on July 13, 2023, is a complete roadmap for democratic change.

“We promised the countrymen that if we are freed from fascism, a national government will be formed based on unity and consensus among all political parties who fight against fascism in a united struggle. If given the responsibility to govern the state, we will rebuild it based on these 31 points.

“The constitution, which has almost turned into the Awami League’s charter, will be amended through democratic reforms to fulfil the people’s hopes.”

Salahuddin said that the authority to amend the constitution is given by the people to the Parliament.

“I think those who think that rewriting, amending, or changing the constitution can be done by any other body apart from Parliament are speaking unconstitutionally.”

Criticising the government’s inefficiency, Salahuddin highlighted the delay in removing bureaucrats appointed during Sheikh Hasina’s tenure.

“It took two months and five days for the interim government to remove a cabinet secretary on contractual service. If it takes that long to remove one bureaucrat, what kind of reform can this government achieve?” he questioned.

Referring to the recent fire incident at the Secretariat, Salahuddin said, “Who is setting the Secretariat on fire today? You say it’s the lackeys of the fascist regime. But you couldn’t remove those lackeys.

“When it takes you two months and five days to remove top bureaucrats to protect your own position, how will you ensure the security of the people? I don’t think it’s possible.”

Salahuddin emphasised that BNP’s criticism is meant to provide constructive feedback.

“The chief adviser said we should criticise more and point out mistakes to keep the government on the right track. Now, when we criticise constructively, they see us as adversaries. We are in favour of democracy; we are not your adversaries.”