Mirza Fakhrul: No conflict between reform and elections, both can happen simultaneously

Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, the General Secretary of BNP, has made it clear that there is no conflict between reform and elections, and both can happen at the same time. 

He shared this viewpoint after paying respects to the late President Ziaur Rahman at his shrine in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka, on the morning of January 19, 2025, to mark his 89th birth anniversary.

Speaking to reporters, Mirza Fakhrul said that the report from the reform commission should be finalized after thorough discussions with various political parties. 

He also highlighted that the way forward for fulfilling people‍‍`s desires and aspirations is through elections, which offer a direct connection to the people.

He stressed the need for an early announcement of the 13th National Parliamentary elections, pointing out that solving all the problems within six months would be unrealistic. 

Therefore, a prompt announcement of the election date is necessary. 

“For the past 16 years, we haven’t practiced parliamentary democracy, and it’s time to bring it back,” he added.

Mirza Fakhrul also mentioned that the implementation of the recommendations made by the four reform commissions requires political parties to come to a mutual agreement. 

He pointed out that these reforms cannot be implemented without political consensus.

According to him, without the cooperation of political parties, student organizations, and the government, it would be difficult to move forward with these reforms. 

During the ceremony at Ziaur Rahman’s grave, BNP leaders and activists were present to pay their respects.