BNP’s Hafiz accuses interim government of eroding democracy and delaying elections

BNP’s Hafiz Accuses Interim Government of Stalling Democracy, Manipulating Election Timeline

BNP Standing Committee Member Major (retd) Hafiz Uddin Ahmad today accused the interim government of deliberately stalling the democratic process and avoiding elections. Speaking at a programme at the National Sports Council auditorium in Motijheel, Hafiz claimed that the body language and statements of the interim government's advisers suggest a clear intention to prevent the full restoration of democracy.

“We fought for 17 years to ensure a fair election, but there’s no sign of that happening. Well-informed sources are saying elections may not be held for another two, three, or even five years — because this government simply doesn’t want one,” Hafiz said. “They may not state it outright, but their remarks and conduct speak volumes.”

Expressing support for Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, Hafiz nonetheless urged immediate steps to restore democratic governance. “Democracy must be reinstated without delay, to honour the sacrifices of our martyrs,” he asserted. “But we are at a loss to understand what the government is actually thinking.”

He accused the interim regime of “playing games” with the state, citing a February meeting where six BNP leaders, including himself, met with the chief adviser and four others. “They initially said elections would be held in December. A week later, that promise was withdrawn. Now they say June next year. This is nothing but toying with the fate of the nation,” he alleged.

Hafiz also raised alarm over the proposed humanitarian corridor, warning of potential involvement in a foreign conflict without public consent. “The people are extremely anxious. So are we.”

Reiterating the BNP’s position, Hafiz emphasized, “We want only one thing — a free, fair election. Let the people decide. We will accept the outcome, whatever it may be.”

He also criticized cricketer Shakib Al Hasan’s involvement in Awami League politics, claiming he had warned Shakib against joining what he called a “dummy election.” “Had he stayed out, he could have walked the streets with pride. Now, even returning home might be difficult for him,” Hafiz remarked.