BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has emphasized the urgent need for early national elections to restore stability, implement reforms, and address the critical challenges facing the nation. He expressed concerns that the interim government is straying from its primary objectives, which could hinder progress.
Speaking at a training workshop titled “31-point Proposal to Repair State Structures and Public Engagement” organized by the Dhaka Bar Unit of Jatiotabadi Ainjibi Forum on Sunday, Tarique stressed the importance of political stability for the country’s recovery. The event was held at the Dhaka Bar Lawyers Association Auditorium.
“Restoring stability is crucial for the nation. Once stability is achieved, we can gradually pull the country back from the brink of collapse,” Tarique said. He acknowledged that while elections alone may not solve all problems, they would pave the way for a stable environment where reforms could be implemented, ultimately easing the severity of existing issues.
Addressing calls for local government elections before national polls, Tarique urged stakeholders to consider the widespread instability across the country. “Instability is everywhere. If we look around, we can see it clearly,” he remarked.
Tarique emphasized that the interim government’s primary responsibility is to facilitate the people’s ability to make political decisions and ensure arrangements for a fair electoral process. However, he noted that the government appears to be deviating from this goal, as reflected in conflicting statements from its officials. “Confusion is being created due to inconsistent remarks, which is natural in a politically unstable environment,” he said.
He warned that without political stability, announced reforms and policies would fail to achieve their intended outcomes. “The interim government’s main focus should be to restore stability as quickly as possible,” he added.
Tarique also highlighted the importance of a functional parliament, stating that delays in its formation would lead to increased restlessness, debates, and controversies, further destabilizing the economy and society. “The longer we delay, the more harm it will cause to the country,” he said.
Regarding the 31-point reform proposal, Tarique asserted that it is the BNP’s sacred responsibility to implement these reforms, as the party was the first to present such a comprehensive plan to the nation. “Our reform proposal aligns closely with those suggested by the interim government. Since we initiated this commitment, it is our duty to ensure its success in a phased manner,” he said.
He concluded by stressing the need for a transparent and neutral election where the people can freely express their judgment. “A parliament formed through a fair election will have the mandate to turn these reforms into reality,” Tarique said.
