Democracy must not be derailed again: Nazrul after BNP's electoral gains

BNP Standing Committee member Nazrul Islam Khan today (13 February) said the country must ensure democracy is never derailed again, as he thanked voters for placing responsibility on the BNP after the party secured a commanding majority in the national election.

"May Bangladesh's democracy never be derailed again," he said, describing the day as significant during remarks at the Election Commission.

Nazrul said the people had "decided to entrust the BNP with responsibility" and expressed gratitude to voters.

He added that people had "learned about our words, actions, and plans, and have voted for us".

He noted that final results had not yet been officially announced and that the exact vote counts remained pending.

However, he said that, according to unofficial announcements, the BNP had secured around two-thirds of the seats.

"It is a difficult matter for everyone to be 100% satisfied with every aspect," he said, adding that previous elections had seen many casualties and losses, which he said did not occur this time.

Referring to voter participation, he said that years without voting had created a "culture of not voting" and that the country had not yet fully overcome it.

He expressed hope that the habit of voting would develop further in future elections.

He also said that Tarique Rahman would deliver a speech on behalf of the party.

Addressing allegations related to the election, he said that those who had made claims regarding the vote must provide proof, adding that there were no allegations against the BNP.