BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has accused Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami of demonstrating double standards by simultaneously calling for a delay in the national election while also nominating candidates in several constituencies.
Speaking at a milad mahfil organized by BNP at its Nayapaltan central office on the occasion of Ashura, Rizvi indirectly criticized Jamaat, saying, “On one hand, they’re asking for the election to be postponed; on the other, they are fielding candidates. This is a classic example of political double standards.”
He questioned the logic behind Jamaat’s demand, pointing out that the current government’s term ends on August 5, and holding elections in February would already be one and a half years into the term. “Isn’t that enough time to implement necessary reforms?” he asked.
Referring to reports that Jamaat has nominated candidates in 33 to 34 constituencies, Rizvi claimed that their current stance contradicts their actions. He also accused Jamaat of repeatedly ignoring public sentiment.
“They opposed the Liberation War in 1971, participated in the 1986 election under Ershad with Sheikh Hasina, and have always prioritized their own political interests over the people’s will,” he said.
Rizvi argued that such decisions have historically backfired on Jamaat, resulting in poor electoral performance when contesting independently. “They rarely win more than two or three seats,” he added.
Highlighting BNP’s position, he said the people of Bangladesh are hoping for an election held under a neutral interim government led by Professor Muhammad Yunus.
“Thousands of our leaders and activists have made sacrifices in pursuit of a free and fair election. That goal must not be compromised,” he emphasized.
He warned against any attempt to delay the polls under the guise of reforms or administrative readiness, suggesting that such moves may be intended to benefit certain parties or individuals.
Rizvi urged the interim administration to uphold fairness and maintain the agreed timeline for elections.
Addressing recent incidents across the country, Rizvi described them as social rather than political crimes and said it is the responsibility of law enforcement to address them without linking them to the election process.
Reflecting on the significance of Ashura and the sacrifice of Imam Hussain, he said, “We must take lessons from history. The struggle against injustice and tyranny must not be forgotten, especially by political parties that once claimed to fight for democracy.”
Rizvi concluded by expressing hope that the upcoming election would mark the end of one-party dominance and restore true democratic governance in Bangladesh.
