Yunus-Tarique meeting to usher in a fresh breeze for democracy: Rizvi

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Wednesday expressed optimism that the meeting between Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and their party acting chairman Tarique Rahman in London will usher in a fresh breeze for democracy in Bangladesh.

"I believe this meeting will be historic and bring a fresh breeze for Bangladesh's democracy. This meeting is very important," he told journalists during a briefing at BNP's Nayapaltan central office.

Rizvi said the entire nation is now looking towards the London meeting with great expectations, as the formal talks between Yunus and Tarique are seen as a source of joy.

He hoped that this meeting would play an important role in safeguarding and strengthening Bangladesh's "unfortunate democracy".

"This meeting is expected to resist the return of fascism and ensure that democracy is not destroyed by aggressive forces. It will be crucial in reinforcing and perpetuating democratic norms in the country," the BNP leader said.

Replying to a question, he reiterated BNP's stance on holding general election in December, saying the party has already presented logical grounds for this timeline.

"The people of the country also consider December to be the logical time for elections. Discussions are going on… we will know the outcome later," Rizvi said.

He is also hopeful that the existing national problems, including the timing of the election, can be resolved through this crucial meeting.

Earlier on Tuesday, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir confirmed that Tarique Rahman is set to hold a formal meeting with Yunus, who is currently visiting the United Kingdom, on 13 June in London.

Talking to reporters at the BNP Chairperson's Gulshan office, he said the meeting will take place at the hotel where the Chief Adviser is currently staying in London.

Rizvi criticised the neighbouring country, India, for what he said showing growing hostility towards Bangladesh and the continuing push-ins of people through the borders.

"This neighbouring country is becoming dangerously antagonistic. Especially, regarding Sheikh Hasina's downfall, they are turning increasingly aggressive," he said.

Labelling people as foreigners, Rizvi said incidents of push-in are happening every day through various borders Bhai India. "There are deliberate provocations and attempts to spark conflict. There's now a surge in push-ins along the border. Is Bangladesh a dumping ground?" he questioned.

He warned that if India tries to push people into Bangladesh by falsely identifying foreigners as Bangladeshis, the nation will not only protest but also resist.

The BNP leader said India must remember that even a despotic ruler like Sheikh Hasina could not remain in power through oppression and persecution, as she was forced to flee the country in broad daylight.

Rizvi expressed grave concern over the recent surge in COVID-19 cases in India and the detection of some cases in Bangladesh. "India has already reported 7,000 new infections, and cases are being reported in Bangladesh as well."

He urged the government to promptly take preventive measures, criticising the health ministry for its inadequate response.

The BNP leader also mentioned that the dengue situation has worsened and is now threatening public health. "The government must work more closely with the public to combat the crisis," he said.

Rizvi expressed concern over growing road accidents during the Eid holidays, saying that nearly 57 people lost their lives due to reckless driving.

"There was also increased criminal activity during Eid. The joy of Eid could not be fully realised due to law and order problems," he said.