BNP Standing Committee Member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has stated that only parties formed after August 5 are opposing the demand for holding elections by December this year.
He made the remarks at a discussion marking the 44th death anniversary of BNP founder President Ziaur Rahman, held at the National Press Club on Saturday.
Amir Khasru questioned, “How else can people express their demand for fair elections?” He stressed that elections must be held by December, adding that investors at home and abroad are waiting for clarity on the poll date.
He claimed that at least 52 political parties want elections within the year. “If someone says only one party wants elections by December, is that even true? And if it’s said targeting us, what message does that send?” he asked.
Khasru alleged that only four or five minor, recently formed parties oppose the election timeline. “They are not even registered yet and have no connection with the people of Bangladesh,” he said.
He likened the emergence of such parties to the formation of "King’s Parties" after the 1/11 political crisis, suggesting these new groups are obstacles to democracy. “Are we going down the same road again?” he asked.
Criticizing the interim government, Khasru said there is no accountability or public link, which has created a chaotic governance environment. “The only way out is to form an elected parliament that is accountable to the people.”
He urged for a peaceful transition of power and a united call to the interim government to restore democratic order.
Amir Khasru also commented that significant political change occurred after Sheikh Hasina fled, and any party failing to realize this shift has no future in Bangladesh.
He concluded by urging BNP leaders and activists to uphold democratic values if the party returns to power, ensuring the mistakes of the past are not repeated.
He emphasized involving people in state governance, as envisioned by President Ziaur Rahman, and earning the public`s trust through action.
