BNP Standing Committee Member Nazrul Islam Khan has said that the people of Bangladesh want an elected and accountable government.
He made the statement on Saturday while addressing a joint rally in Bogra organized by Jubo Dal, Swechchhasebak Dal, and Chhatra Dal.
Speaking as the chief guest, Nazrul Islam Khan said: “The gathering of youth gives us renewed hope. The dream we have of restoring democracy will be realized through the youth. The people want an elected and accountable government.”
He added: “If workers, youth, students, and women do not receive their rightful dues, our sacrifices will go in vain. Whether in 1971, 1990, or 2024, those who laid down their lives can only be honored through the establishment of democracy. Our victories have been snatched away time and again; now it is time to restore the people's rights.”
Nazrul Islam Khan said: “The interim government is not a permanent one. You are in power only between two elected governments. You must step down after fulfilling your responsibilities. The people want a government that is elected and accountable.”
He further said: “Those who talk about reforms are not saying anything beyond our 31-point proposal. Reforms are necessary, but they must aim to restore people’s rights.”
Demanding a quick announcement for election roadmap, he said: “What’s the problem with holding elections in December? Those calling for a delay should explain why. Just because some parties need time to organize, does that mean we’ll waste the people’s time? The people are no longer willing to wait.”
In his speech as special guest, BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said: “Dr Yunus, the chief adviser of the interim government, is a respected figure. We have no personal objection against him. But appointing advisers younger than his grandsons is causing serious mistakes that must be corrected immediately.”
Expressing frustration over the issue of ports and humanitarian corridors, Rizvi said: “The Chittagong Port is being handed over to foreigners. Are there no capable individuals in Bangladesh? Controversial decisions are being taken in the name of humanitarian corridors. When political parties speak out against this, some people express outrage.”
He continued: “Sheikh Hasina spoke about many developments, but did nothing for youth employment. The awakening of today’s youth will become the strength of the anti-fascist movement.”
The rally was presided over by Chhatra Dal President Rakibul Islam Rakib, and jointly moderated by Swechchhasebak Dal General Secretary Rajib Ahsan and Chhatra Dal General Secretary Nasir Uddin Nasir.
Other key speakers included Jubo Dal President Abdul Monayem Munna, Jubo Dal General Secretary Nurul Islam Noyon, and Swechchhasebak Dal President SM Zilani.