Talks with CA: BNP calls for swift completion of reforms for elections in Dec, removal of 'controversial' advisers

BNP senior leaders and CA at Jamuna on 24 May evening. Photo: CA Press Wing

The BNP has called for swift completion of reforms, initiated by the interim government, as well as holding the national election by December this year.

The party's Standing Committee Member Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain briefed reporters after a meeting with Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna at 7:30pm this evening (24 May).

"We have called for completing the reforms quickly and holding the national election by December. Additionally, we have demanded the announcement of a roadmap for the election," he said.

"We have also demanded the formation of an advisory council excluding controversial advisers."

BNP Standing Committee member Salahudin Ahmed said they have asked the chief adviser to remove National Security Adviser Khalilur Rahman and two student advisers – Youth and Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuiyan and Information Adviser Mahfuj Alam. 

"We have said this before as well as today, in a written statement," he added.

In response to whether they are satisfied with the discussion, Salahuddin said, "We have presented our views. Now the chief adviser will provide feedback through his press wing. Only then can we say whether we are satisfied or not."

Mentioning that the government's three agendas are not interrelated with the elections, Khandaker Mosharraf said reform and justice are ongoing processes. 

"The BNP is the most affected by the Awami League, and we demand justice against the Awami League first. If reforms begin and the BNP comes to power, we will carry them forward. We have called for the announcement of an election roadmap while the reform process continues."

Also at the briefing, Amir Khasru said, "It is also possible to hold the election before December — this has been discussed as well."

BNP's Moyeen Khan said, "If the election roadmap is announced, all instability in the country will subside."

Amid an unfolding political crisis, the BNP held its meeting primarily focusing on elections, which concluded at around 8:30pm.

A four-member delegation, led by Khandaker, also included Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, Salahudin Ahmed and Moyeen Khan.

Speaking to the media earlier, Khasru said this was the only way to restore democratic order in Bangladesh.

Yesterday, Salahuddin said they contacted the CA to request an appointment. "If a political party like BNP cannot get a meeting even after 5–6 days, it's unfortunate. That itself shows the state of the relationship." 

Next in line, the chief adviser met Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and National Citizen Party (NCP) separately.