Jamaat, other party rallies creating unnecessary pressure while discussions underway: Fakhrul
He reiterated that the BNP seeks solutions through dialogue, expressing hope that the implementation of the July Charter would also be resolved in the same way
BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has criticised the protest rallies by Jamaat-e-Islami and several other parties, saying such programmes are aimed at creating "unnecessary pressure" while discussions are still underway.
"I think there was no need for such programmes. The discussions have not yet concluded. Organising these protests at this stage only creates unnecessary pressure, which is neither good for democracy nor helpful in making the right decisions," he told journalists today (18 September) upon returning to Dhaka from Singapore after medical treatment.
Fakhrul questioned whether taking to the streets would solve the crisis. "After the fall of Awami League, we have not taken to the streets over any issue," he said.
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He reiterated that the BNP seeks solutions through dialogue, expressing hope that the implementation of the July Charter would also be resolved in the same way.
On the proportional representation (PR) electoral system, Fakhrul said, "BNP is not in favour of PR. Bangladesh does not need it. Discussions on the July Charter are ongoing. Many issues have already been agreed upon, and those should be brought forward."
The BNP leader stressed that whatever changes are made, public support is crucial.
"A parliament formed with the people's mandate through elections can amend or change the constitution. That is where such decisions are possible," he added.
Regarding the ban on 14-party alliance and Jatiya Party, Fakhrul clarified, "BNP is not in favour of banning any political party."
On his upcoming visit to the United States as part of Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus's delegation to attend the UN General Assembly, he said, "I myself don't know what our role will be there, as I have not yet spoken to Dr Yunus about it. Perhaps I will know once we talk."
He added that the focus would likely be on the advancement of democracy in Bangladesh, alongside issues of national development.
While responding to a question that many decisions regarding Bangladesh are taken abroad, Fakhrul said, "I don't think so. Our country's decisions must be made collectively by us. We have always taken our own decisions, and we will continue to do so."
There is no need for foreign involvement in this regard, he added.
