'Who benefits from a delayed election in Bangladesh?' asks Tarique
BNP wants election, as it believes in the political power of the people, says Tarique
Reiterating the BNP's demand for an early national election, party acting chairman Tarique Rahman today (25 February) questioned who would benefit if polls were delayed in Bangladesh.
"Certain individuals and organisations suddenly claim that BNP only wants elections, and that BNP understands nothing but elections. But the BNP is a political party. We believe in the rule of the people, in their political power, in democracy, and in the politics of votes. Therefore, we want elections, we seek the people's votes and this is natural," he said while speaking virtually at Cumilla metropolitan BNP's conference.
Tarique said, "We need to think why some people are turning a simple matter into something abnormal. We must question if there are hidden agendas or ulterior motives at play. If the elections are delayed in Bangladesh right now, who will benefit, and whose interests will be protected? This is a crucial issue today."
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He also said, "As a political activist, I believe that if we can establish the foundation for democracy in Bangladesh and maintain its practice, we can protect the country and its people from conspiracies. The more we uphold democracy, the more we can ensure people's right to vote and shield everyone from harmful plots."
Tarique stated that over the past 15-16 years, the BNP has faced oppression, torture, disappearances, false cases, and many challenges.
BNP presses on for prioritising national polls while Jamaat, Gono Odhikar seek local body elections first
"But we believe the BNP has become a party of the people. Despite the obstacles, we are working step by step to overcome them and meet the needs of the people more effectively. This effort will continue in the future," he added.
The conference was chaired by Cumilla metropolitan BNP Convener Utbatul Bari Abu, with BNP Vice Chairman Barkatullah Bulu delivering the keynote address. BNP Relief and Rehabilitation Secretary Amin-ur-Rashid Yasin, Cumilla south district BNP Convener Zakaria Taher Suman spoke as special guests.
