BNP holds rallies in four districts, urging swift elections to restore democracy

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has launched its nationwide programs with rallies in four districts on Wednesday. These gatherings, held in Khulna, Sirajganj, Sunamganj, and Lalmonirhat, focused on demands such as stabilizing essential commodity prices, improving law and order, and outlining election plans.

BNP central leaders participated in the rallies, emphasizing the need for immediate elections to restore democracy. They argued that only elected representatives could effectively implement necessary reforms.

At the Khulna rally, BNP standing committee member Major (retd) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed stated that an interim government's primary responsibility is to facilitate fair elections, ensuring power is handed back to the people. In Sirajganj, fellow committee member Nazrul Islam Khan reiterated BNP’s stance against fascism, expressing hope that democracy would be restored through inclusive elections.

Gayeshwar Chandra Roy, addressing the rally in Lalmonirhat, criticized the interim government, stating that people had been deprived of voting rights for 17 years. He called for a fair election process under the current leadership. Meanwhile, at the Sunamganj rally, BNP chairperson’s adviser Ariful Haque Chowdhury stressed that transferring power through elections would bring relief to the people.

According to BNP sources, the party plans to hold rallies in 67 organizing districts until February 25. The next rally is scheduled for February 16 in Feni, where standing committee member Salahuddin Ahmed will be present.

‘Half of the Reforms Already Done’

At the Khulna rally, Major (retd) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed claimed that half of the necessary reforms had already taken place with Sheikh Hasina’s departure. He asserted that elections within two to three months would complete the remaining reforms, emphasizing that only elected representatives have the legitimate mandate to amend the constitution. Highlighting the complexities of governance, he urged for improved law and order and a fair election process.

The event was chaired by Khulna BNP convener Md Moniruzzaman, with BNP central executive committee’s information affairs secretary Azizul Bari Helal as the main speaker.

‘BNP’s 31-Point Agenda is All About Reforms’

In Sirajganj, BNP standing committee member Nazrul Islam Khan dismissed claims that BNP opposes reforms, stating that all 31 points in the party’s framework focus on necessary changes. He stressed that any government in power should implement these reforms, and BNP would do so if given the opportunity.

He clarified that the interim government was placed in power to meet public expectations—ensuring economic stability, fair prices for farmers, and the restoration of democracy through credible elections. The rally was presided over by Sirajganj district BNP president Rumana Mahmud.

‘Losing Neutrality’

At the Lalmonirhat rally, Gayeshwar Chandra Roy accused the interim government of losing its neutrality, warning that if it continued on this path, it would no longer be seen as impartial. He questioned recent government actions, particularly the “bulldozer program,” suggesting it indicated a breakdown in law enforcement and governance.

The rally was chaired by Rangpur divisional organizing secretary and former deputy minister Asadaul Habib Dulu.

‘People Must Be Put at Ease’

Speaking in Sunamganj, BNP chairperson’s adviser Ariful Haque Chowdhury criticized Sheikh Hasina for turning the country into a "bottomless basket" and blamed her for rising commodity prices. He called for urgent reforms and a swift election to return power to the people, ensuring stability and relief.

The Sunamganj rally was led by district BNP convener Kalim Uddin Ahmed.