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democratic forces, will sit and re-determine how we would bring back democracy in the country,” he said at a book launch event yesterday.

He went on to urge the chief adviser to grasp the urgency of the matter.

“August 5 didn’t happen for the local government election. Some want to benefit from delaying the national election.”

Salahuddin criticised the newly announced National Citizen Party’s bid for a constituent assembly and a second republic.

“Those are their party declaration -- let it happen when you [the new party] will be able to do so. Those who raise these issues either do not understand the situation or are involved in a conspiracy to prolong the democratic process,” he added.

However, in response to a query on the BNP’s demand for the election roadmap, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam said the BNP may be pressing for a specific election date.

“We have already clarified that the roadmap has been provided. The BNP may now be seeking a precise date. We have stated that if political parties agree to proceed with minimal reforms, the election can be held within December this year,” he said at a press briefing at the capital’s Foreign Service Academy.

If the parties prefer elections after implementing additional reforms, there could be a delay of up to three months.

“However, after April, the Kalbaishakhi (nor’wester) and monsoon rains set in, which would make election logistics more challenging.”

About starting dialogues between the National Consensus Commission and political parties, Alam said the discussions will begin very soon.