Tarique: Interim Government Paving Way for Fascist Revival

Tarique Accuses Interim Govt of Enabling Fascist Forces Under Cover of Reform

BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman has accused the interim government of using the pretext of reforms to delay the transition process and pave the way for the return of fascist elements.

Speaking virtually as the chief guest at an Easter reunion event held in Khamarbari, Dhaka, on Friday, Tarique alleged that “the government is wasting time in the name of reforms to facilitate the escape of allies of the fugitive autocrat.” He further claimed that efforts were underway to sow discord among anti-fascist political groups and to reintegrate collaborators of past authoritarian regimes.

Tarique also criticized the Awami League for allegedly turning the Constitution into a partisan document. “The hopes and ideals that inspired the Liberation War were never realized under Awami League rule. They have effectively rewritten the Constitution to serve their party’s agenda,” he said.

He argued that true realization of the Liberation War’s spirit requires constitutional reform anchored in the principles of equality, human dignity, and social justice—principles the BNP has formally submitted to the interim government.

Questioning the performance of the interim administration, Tarique said, “Various sections of society are raising concerns about whether the government is fulfilling its responsibilities. Although we support their role, doubts about their effectiveness are growing.”

He expressed anguish over the enforced disappearance of BNP Dhaka city unit leader Sajedul Islam Sumon in December 2013, allegedly at the hands of RAB, and said Sumon’s family still has no information about his fate. He also highlighted that Sumon’s sister, Sanjida Islam Tuli, founded Maayer Daak (Call of Mother) in 2014 to unite families of victims of enforced disappearances.

Tarique condemned a police raid on Tuli’s residence the previous night, allegedly in search of Sumon, and criticized law enforcement for later claiming ignorance of his disappearance. “Even if we accept they were unaware of Sumon’s case, how did former president Abdul Hamid—who served during the autocratic regime—manage to leave the country via the airport just yesterday?” he asked.

Drawing a parallel with Sheikh Hasina’s escape on 5 August last year, Tarique said, “The president of the autocratic era has now fled the country, and the government says it knew nothing. If they’re unaware of this, what do they know?”