BNP wants interim govt to act neutrally, did not mention caretaker: Adviser Asif Nazrul

BNP did not mention caretaker government during the recent meeting with Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus; rather, they urged that the interim administration function neutrally ahead of the upcoming national election, Law Adviser Asif Nazrul said today (22 October).

Speaking to journalists at the Secretariat, the adviser said, "The BNP did not mention a caretaker government. Instead, they want the neutral role of the government."

"We are performing our duties neutrally. They have been assured by the government that it is working neutrally," he added.

When asked about the confidence of political parties and the public in the electoral process, the law adviser said, "There is no crisis of confidence in the government regarding the February election. There is no doubt about the election."

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Regarding the appearance of army officers before the International Crimes Tribunal earlier in the day, he said the incident reflected the military's respect for the rule of law.

"The way the army personnel came, or were brought, showing respect for the ongoing judicial process, and the cooperation extended by senior army officials and the army chief, is highly commendable," he said.

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"Where they will be kept — in a sub-jail or elsewhere — is entirely under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Home Affairs. They will do what they deem appropriate," he added.

Yesterday (21 October), following a meeting with the chief adviser, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir told reporters that the interim government must act "like a caretaker government" to ensure a fair and credible national election.

He also called for neutrality across the administration and judiciary, alleging that some officials still serve the interests of the previous government.