Dhaka, Dec 27 (V7N) — BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir emphasised the party’s demand for electoral reforms before participating in elections. Speaking at a national dialogue titled "Unity, Reform and Election" held at the Krishibid Institute in Khamarbari, Dhaka, on Friday afternoon, he stated that BNP seeks to ensure a fair and acceptable election process.

Mirza Fakhrul clarified, "We have repeatedly said that we want to participate in elections, but only after implementing the necessary reforms to ensure credibility. Elections are the main gateway to a democratic system, as highlighted by Dr. Ali Riaz."

Citing the success of elections held under the caretaker government in the past, he noted, "These elections were widely accepted by the people, as the caretaker government was considered credible. A similar system is essential to gain public trust in the electoral process."

The BNP leader stressed the importance of democratic institutions, saying, "We cannot achieve progress by imposing systems without public involvement. Institutions must be rebuilt democratically to strengthen the foundation of democracy. While mistakes are inevitable, practicing democracy is the only way forward."

Mirza Fakhrul highlighted the BNP’s past efforts to propose reforms, mentioning a 2016 documentary that outlined ideas for political balance, including limiting the Prime Minister's tenure to two terms, establishing a bicameral parliament, and balancing power between the Prime Minister and the President. He also referenced the party's 31-point reform proposal in 2022, developed after extensive consultations with political parties and stakeholders.

Urging all political forces to remember the spirit of the 1971 Liberation War, Mirza Fakhrul said, "The struggle for democracy is continuous, and we must not forget our history. Reforms are necessary for democracy, but they must be people-centric."

The dialogue was attended by notable figures, including Electoral Reform Commission Chief Badiul Alam Majumder, economist Dr. Debapriya Bhattacharya, Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman, Nagorik Oikya President Mahmudur Rahman Manna, Gana Sanghati Andolon Chief Coordinator Jonayed Saki, Gano Forum leader Subrata Chowdhury, and Gana Adhikar Parishad faction President Nurul Haque Nur.

The event underscored the growing demand for political and electoral reforms in Bangladesh, with various political parties and civil society members urging unity to ensure a democratic future.

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