Reforms Ahead of Elections: BNP Awaits with Cautious Optimism

After enduring a challenging 15 years as the de facto opposition, the BNP is now focused on implementing only the essential reforms required to ensure free and fair elections. The party is cautious about broader, sweeping reforms, which could delay the election process. Its leaders believe that remnants of the previous regime within the current administration could hinder the swift enactment of reforms.

The BNP is cautiously supporting the Yunus-led interim government but remains concerned due to the lack of urgency in addressing key issues, such as the withdrawal of thousands of cases against its members, including those against acting chairman Tarique Rahman.

A senior member of the BNP's standing committee, speaking anonymously, expressed concern that the interim government appears unsure of how to navigate the country's political challenges. "They have a significant responsibility but seem unable to meet public expectations for a transition to democracy," he said. The leader warned that if the government fails to deliver, it could lead to further instability, which would be dangerous for the nation as a whole.

Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zaman has suggested that the transition to democracy could take one to one-and-a-half years. Meanwhile, Chief Adviser Prof. Muhammad Yunus has indicated that the election date will be announced once a consensus on reforms is reached with political parties and the voter list is prepared.

BNP leaders believe that if the government is genuine in its efforts, elections could be held within 18 months. Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, a BNP standing committee member, expressed hope that the government would move swiftly with necessary reforms and then proceed to elections, respecting the will of the people. He added that unresolved issues could be left for the next elected government to address, as reforms are an ongoing process.

While BNP leaders acknowledge that institutional reforms could be done quickly, they note that constitutional reforms may be more complex. The extent of constitutional changes will depend on the government’s focus areas.

The reform commissions have been asked to submit their reports by December, and BNP leaders believe this is a reasonable timeline. However, they caution that extending this timeframe could create complications.

Abdul Moyeen Khan, another standing committee member, emphasized that the interim government’s primary mandate is to transition the country from autocracy to democracy. He warned that if the government tries to reform too much, it would prolong its stay in power unnecessarily. "The people did not give them a mandate to reform everything under the sun," he said.

The BNP has reiterated its support for the interim government but insists on the need for a clear election roadmap. Without this, they fear further confusion and complications.

Salahuddin Ahmed, another senior BNP leader, noted that the reform committees were given three months to make recommendations, which the party considers reasonable. "So, for now, we support the process," he said.

BNP leaders believe that while delaying the elections would harm the party, they cannot pressure the government for immediate polls, as the public still desires meaningful reforms.