23-Nov-2024 11:49 PM
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Dhaka, Nov 23 (Reporter) Calling for elections, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman said that they are the only way to “rebuild” the nation, currently plagued by numerous crises, both socio-economic as well as political.
In a virtual address from London, Rahman attended a BNP conference in Chuadanga, Khulna, on Saturday afternoon, emphasising on the need for quick elections.
“All problems can be resolved only through elections. Popular representatives are essential to address these issues. We must emphasise to both the government and the people that elections are the only solution. To rebuild the country, elections are the only path where people can exercise their voting rights,” Rahman said, according to The Dhaka Tribune.
He further said: “Those elected to parliament through elections will carry out real reforms and fulfil the aspirations of the people. If the government can ensure a neutral election, elected representatives will voice the concerns of the public and make decisions to resolve national issues. They will bring reforms to every sector of the country.”
Highlighting the ‘student protest’ which led to the ouster of ex-PM Sheikh Hasina, Rahman added: “Bangladesh has been freed from dictatorship. An interim government is now governing the country, supported by those who fought against dictatorship for years, including the BNP. For restoring people's rights, an election is necessary to empower them.”
Talking about the "destruction" of established institutions by the Awami League and how to repurpose them, he said “BNP proposed a 31-point reform agenda two years ago, even before the current government’s reform proposals. Reform is an ongoing process initiated by one and carried forward by others. It’s not a one-day task.”
The BNP leader went on to allege a "conspiracy by local and foreign agents" against the interim government, stating that only a government carrying the people’s mandate can prevent them from coming to fruition.
“The reforms proposed by the chief adviser can only be implemented through fair elections. Delaying elections will increase conspiracies. Those who ousted dictatorship are not idle; they are plotting with local and foreign forces. The longer the delay, the greater the problems...////...