TDS Desk:

There is no alternative to reforming the country through an elected parliament, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said Saturday (24 August).

“Elections are very important for state reforms. I do not believe that a few individuals will reform the state. It must be done through public participation,” he said in his speech as the chief guest at a discussion meeting held at the National Press Club Saturday (24 August).

Mentioning those currently in charge of the interim government as competent individuals, Fakhrul said BNP has high expectations from the interim government.

“We all believe that this interim government will arrange a fair election within a reasonable time. The chief advisor will soon present what they intend to do in front of the people. We hope they will arrange for an election very soon through a roadmap,” he said.

Fakhrul said, “Sheikh Hasina has fled. However, those who are her allies have either fled or are in hiding. We do not want to see those who have supported Hasina and oppressed the people through their roles as her accomplices near the advisors of the interim government.

“Seeing them with important individuals worries and concerns us,” he added.

Mentioning that there has been no genuine agenda-based discussion with the new government involving political parties, Fakhrul said the interim government must know the political parties’ opinions.

“There must be an exchange of views with the political parties by the interim government to prevent any counter-revolution,” he added.

Fakhrul emphasised that the political parties need to discuss with the interim government to meet the people’s demands quickly.

“A mechanism for holding an election must be established very soon. Today, a new future is before us. All waste must be removed to make the country beautiful and move forward,” he added.

The BNP Secretary General also said floods have already killed several people in ten districts, including Cumilla, Feni, and Noakhali.

“Several hundred thousand people have been trapped by the waters. Their homes have been submerged. We express our sympathy to them. He called on the party leaders and workers to stand by their side during this time,” he added.