You can‍‍`t do politics and avoid elections at the same time: Khasru

BNP Standing Committee Member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has said that those who fear elections have no place in politics and should instead operate as pressure groups or NGOs.

“You can’t engage in politics while refusing to participate in elections and simultaneously obstruct democratic processes,” he said.

He made the remarks on Sunday at a discussion event held at Dhaka Reporters Unity, organized by the Bhasani Janashakti Party and the Bhasani Followers Council, marking one year since the July mass uprising.

Amir Khasru warned that in countries where revolutions took place but elections were delayed, divisions followed, leading to civil war and the emergence of failed states.

In contrast, nations that quickly returned to democratic processes through timely elections have progressed socially, economically, and politically.

He acknowledged that full consensus in politics is not always possible, stating, “We represent different political parties and ideologies. Total agreement is unrealistic, but there must be unity on national issues. Without ideological differences, democracy cannot thrive — it would become one-party rule.”

Amir Khasru emphasized the need for tolerance, stating that while disagreements are natural, mutual respect must be maintained. “We must avoid confrontational politics,” he added.

Referring to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Khasru remarked that the public psyche in Bangladesh has changed since her departure. He suggested that political groups failing to recognize this shift have no future. “Change must come by engaging the people,” he noted.

Criticizing selective participation in electoral processes, the BNP leader said, “It’s undemocratic to declare that elections will only be accepted if held on one‍‍`s terms. This approach mirrors Sheikh Hasina‍‍`s style — where only her decisions prevailed, leaving no room for others’ rights.”

The discussion was also addressed by leaders from various opposition parties and alliances, including Mustafa Jamal Haider, Chairman of Jatiya Party (Kazi Zafar faction); Subrata Chowdhury, Acting President of Gono Forum; Shahidullah Kaiser, General Secretary of Nagorik Oikya; and Sheikh Rafiqul Islam Babul, Convener of Bhasani Followers Council.