Ganatantra Mancha leader and Chief Coordinator of Ganasanghati Andolon Zonayed Saki on Friday leveled accusations against the government for jeopardizing the international market to maintain power without holding elections.
"This activity of the government must not be allowed under any circumstances," he said at a protest rally organized by the Sammilita Sramik Parishad in front of the National Press Club.
In his speech, Saki warned of the international implications of the government's actions, saying: "If this government can conduct elections in such a way, it does not matter whether you and I speak out or not, or whether the people speak or not, the Western world will surely raise its voice. This government's actions are not just an attack on us, but a gamble with the fate of the entire nation."
He said: "The US has introduced a new labour rights policy. Western countries warn that if there are unfair elections, human rights violations, or infringement of workers' rights, they may place new restrictions on our exports, especially in the garment industry. This industry, built by millions of workers and dedicated entrepreneurs, is at risk due to the government's efforts to remain in power without elections. We cannot let the government succeed in this, as it would devastate our nation and its people, including workers. We must oppose this."
He added: “The law states that wages should be adjusted every five years. For this reason, we see a movement brewing every five years. We all know how the prices of goods have skyrocketed during and after the pandemic.”
Gono Odhikar Parishad President Nurul Haque Nur said: "It's unfortunate that the drama unfolding in the name of election is not being orchestrated by the Awami League or the government, nor by foreigners. Rather, certain individuals within Bangladesh's state intelligence agency are using the political facade of the Awami League for their own financial and power gains, leading the country towards this staged election. A total 38 political parties have rejected this election. And they are telling the international community that the election must be free, fair, and participatory. If the election is not participatory, we, the people, will be the victims."