BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia’s adviser Khandakar Mahbub Hossain said a new journey to restore the democracy in the country would start from January 5.
He said: “This January 5 will be different from the one in previous year as a new journey to restore democracy will commence on the day.”
He made the statement while addressing a discussion programme at the National Press Club yesterday.
Khandkar, who is also the president of The Supreme Court Ainjibi Samity, said: “The government held a one-sided election on January 5 last year amid a boycott by the major political parties of the country.”
“Begum Khaleda Zia placed a seven-point proposal to resolve the ongoing political crisis. In line of the proposal, the government should hold talks immediately.”
Issuing a note of warning, the BNP leader further said: “If the government does not take any effective step in this regard, it will have to face dire consequences.”
Earlier, the party sought permission from the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) and Public Works Department to hold the January 5 rally either at Suhrawardy Udyan, in front of the party’s Nayapaltan headquarters or at Shapla square in Matijheel.
However, they are yet to get the permission. A delegation of the BNP went to the DMP office on Thursday but failed to meet any official.
The ruling Awami League also announced to hold a rally on the same day to observe what they said “Democracy Protection Day”.
The 10th national election was held on January 5, 2013 with the BNP-led alliances and many other political parties boycotting it.
The Awami League formed the government for the second time in a row with absolute majority and the Jatiya Party became the main opposition though three of its lawmakers are also cabinet members.
