BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Sunday urged the interim government to ensure a free and fair election, stressing that only an elected government has the mandate to amend the constitution in the nation’s interest.
Speaking to reporters after distributing raincoats to rickshaw and van pullers at BNP’s central office in Nayapaltan, Rizvi said, “If any amendment to the constitution is needed for the country’s benefit, it must be done by an elected government.”
Referring to the political developments of August 5, he emphasized that the gains made must be preserved, recalling the sixteen years of what he described as oppressive rule under Sheikh Hasina’s government. “During that period, there was no rule of law, no justice. State machinery, including the judiciary and law enforcement, was used to serve personal vendettas,” he said.
Rizvi warned that the return of such governance could bring even more severe consequences. “Sheikh Hasina once fought to establish the caretaker government system, only to abolish it herself once in power. Politics for her is a tool of deception and self-interest. We cannot allow that brand of politics to return,” he said.
He also called on the interim government to maintain neutrality and meet public expectations. While noting that inflation has decreased slightly, Rizvi raised concerns over rising unemployment, factory closures, and the risk of food insecurity. “About 100,000 garment workers have lost jobs. Politics cannot be conducted on the backs of starving people. Factories must remain open, and people must not go hungry. If needed, the government should sell factories through auction,” he added.
On the question of constitutional amendments, Rizvi said, “Any changes related to the July charter should be decided by a future elected parliament. Some parties suggest a referendum, but the constitution already allows amendments through parliament. Only elected representatives can make such decisions.”
He reiterated that constitutional changes required for democracy should be undertaken solely by an elected government.
