Staff Correspondent:

BNP Vice Chairman Abdul Awal Mintoo on Wednesday has said that party chairperson Khaleda Zia is in good health and intends to contest in the upcoming national election.

Speaking at an event at the Grand Sultan Convention Hall in Feni city, Mintoo told reporters, “Everyone is aware of Feni’s electoral history.

If the election is free and fair, InshaAllah, the BNP will win here. Our party leader, Khaleda Zia, will also participate in the election. She is currently in good health. We have no concerns regarding Feni.”

He also commented on ongoing discussions regarding the formation of an interim government.

Referring to recent talks with BNP’s acting chairman in London, he said, “A joint statement was issued regarding an interim government, and we trust that elections will be held in the first week of February. However, considering the current situation, elections could take place even earlier, possibly in January, as a case on the caretaker government is currently under hearing at the Supreme Court.”

Addressing the long-standing demand for election-time governance, Mintoo stated, “If the caretaker system is restored, this interim setup will function accordingly, and elections must be held within 90 days as per the constitution.”

He further criticized the current government for lacking public accountability, adding, “We have been enduring political repression for the past 19 years. If anyone claims that our demand for elections is sudden, they are misinformed. BNP has been demanding fair elections since 2006.”

Mintoo reiterated the party’s stance that the 2008 general election was not free or fair. “Bangladesh hasn’t had a proper election-time government in nearly two decades. Without an elected and accountable administration, people’s economic conditions and quality of life cannot improve,” he said.