Dhaka, Jan 25 (V7N) —BNP Standing Committee member Dr Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain has stressed the importance of prioritizing elections over reforms, noting that while reforms are necessary, they cannot be completed within a fixed timeframe.
He made these comments during a discussion organized by the New York State BNP (US branch) at the Abdus Salam Hall of the National Press Club in Dhaka on Saturday, January 25, 2025.
Dr Khandaker Mosharraf said: “There are conspiracies regarding the election. Efforts are being made to delay the elections. Those who have been in power for the last 17 years are trying to manipulate the election process.”
He added: “However, we believe the interim government will soon announce the election date. Once the people focus on the elections, no conspiracy will work. The people will thwart all conspiracies. Therefore, announce the election date without further delay.”
Addressing the interim government, he said: “Hold elections as soon as possible to restore power to the people. The people will decide who will form the government. The elected government will be the permanent government of this country. The interim government cannot remain in power indefinitely.”
He further said: “Some allege that we are demanding elections for power. However, as a party, we have never strived for power.”
He further added: “Some claim that democracy was restored after the fall of the autocratic government in July-August. This movement has been ongoing for the past 17 years, and no one can deny this.”
Dr Mosharraf also said: “Every successful movement has a long history. The movement that succeeded in July-August has a prolonged record of BNP’s efforts. This cannot be denied.”
“After the people made this movement successful, those who came to power are not elected by the people. They are the byproduct of this movement and also claim to be a neutral interim government. BNP has extended its support to this government,” the BNP leader added.
END/MSS/AJ
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