Dr AZM Zahid Hossain, a BNP standing committee member, has said all political parties are cooperating with the interim government due to the erstwhile government's destruction of democratic institutions over the past 15 and a half years, but elections must be held promptly.
The BNP leader made the call as chief guest at a rally organized by the 12-party alliance in front of the National Press Club on Wednesday.
Dr Zahid referred to a statement made by the Indian Prime Minister on X on Bangladesh's Victory Day, saying it questioned Bangladesh’s independence and sovereignty.
He mentioned that over the past 17 years, Bangladesh has only been giving to India.
He criticized the notion that Bangladesh would become like Singapore if India uses Bangladesh for transit, while the country’s economy continues to suffer due to the massive movement of Indian trucks through Akhaura.
Dr Zahid said that in recent years, Bangladesh has been misled. He acknowledged India's support during the Liberation War, for which Bangladesh is grateful, but pointed out that India has been extracting its due over the years.
He said that the issue of the Farakka dam water remains unresolved, people continue to die at the border, and Bangladesh faces unwanted floods due to the release of water from Indian dams.
Dr Zahid further criticized the delay in the trial of the collaborators of the dictatorship.
He accused the Awami League of occupying homes, filing false cases, and persecuting people.
The politician emphasized that the aim is to repair the state, and they are working on a 31-point plan for it.
Addressing the interim government, he said they will not be able to carry out all reforms themselves and urged them to clarify when elections will be held.
He criticized what he said were conflicting statements made by the chief adviser and his press secretary, questioning who is responsible for making such decisions.