BNP colluded with India, Awami League during election: Nahid Islam

NCP Convenor and opposition party Chief Whip Nahid Islam has alleged that the BNP has colluded with India and the Awami League during the 13th national election to ensure their victory.

Speaking at a press conference at the party's central office in Banglamotor of the capital today (19 February), he warned that people will resist if efforts are made to further rehabilitate AL for its vote bank.

"The government will be held responsible if they fail to tackle the AL, and even if it (rehabilitation) continues, we will call for political resistance," he said, adding that AL offices are being reopened in districts and upazilas across the country despite ongoing trials.

Regarding the election, Nahid said his party is disappointed with the election results as it has been "questionable" due to manipulation.

"We took an oath in the interest of national stability. But on the first day, the government deceived everyone over the process," he alleged, adding that the referendum is closely linked to the election.

"Through misinterpretation and by misquoting the Constitution, reforms have been undermined. The aspiration to build a new Bangladesh and the referendum have been disregarded," alleged the NCP leader, who was elected from the Dhaka-12 constituency.  

Nahid expressed optimism that the authorities (BNP) would take the oath soon and initiate reforms towards the fundamental structure of the Constitution.

He also urged the government to arrange oath-taking for members of the Constitutional Reform Council before convening the parliamentary session.  

Cabinet criticism

Criticising the newly formed cabinet, Nahid said it is neither inclusive nor representative. There has been no real representation of women and minorities.

He said the average age of the cabinet is 60, which does not reflect a youth-driven Bangladesh, while 62% of cabinet members are businesspersons, and they are likely to prioritise their interests over public interest.

Bringing several allegations, Nahid said most of the cabinet members are loan defaulters with outstanding loans amounting to Tk18, 000 crore, and those who faced graft charges from 2001-2006 have been included now.