BNP to launch movement to 'guide' interim govt, says Salahuddin

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed today said his party plans to initiate a movement aimed at guiding the interim government and paving the way for an elected political government.
"On behalf of our party, we are thinking about correcting some government mistakes and bringing it to the right path to build a democratic way. To clear the way for an elected political government, we will take some steps very soon. You can call it a movement or even criticism," he said at a discussion meeting at the Jatiya Press Club today.
He highlighted the pressing questions facing the nation: "What reforms do we want in the coming days? How do we want the election? When do we want the election? The success, failure, decisions, and indecisions of this government—these are the current questions."
He added that constructive criticism is necessary to guide the government, and if needed, the party may take to the streets to ensure the government stays on the right track.
All governments, including the interim one, can make mistakes. The responsibility to guide the government lies not only with journalists but also with political "democratic power" and social stakeholders.
"One good quality of the interim government is that even if it makes wrong decisions at times, it corrects them in the face of criticism. When the government corrects its mistakes, we must remember that this government is a government of the people," he said.
Delays in election and reforms
BNP leader Salahuddin expressed concern over the delay in the national election and called for logical explanations for any postponement.
He said six months passed. Reform commissions submitted their reports to the government, and after that, no significant discussions with political parties, social stakeholders, or experts have taken place.
"Almost 14-15 days have passed since the reports were submitted, but no such initiative has been seen yet," he said.
He urged the government to identify reform proposals that can achieve consensus, and discussion with political parties, social stakeholders and experts.
"There are also issues that do not align with Bangladesh's political and social culture—these are the things we need to consider," he said.
Constitutional reforms and July Uprising
On constitutional reforms, Salahuddin questioned the proposal to include the July uprising in the same paragraph as the 1971 Liberation War in the constitution's preamble.
"Can post-independence events be equated with the Liberation War? This needs to be considered," he said.
He also emphasised the importance of honouring those who were "martyred" during the July movement.
"They shed blood for a new Bangladesh, and their aspirations must be carried forward," he said.
Awami League's participation in elections
Salahuddin has said that the participation of the Awami League in the national election will ultimately be decided by the people.
"We are now speaking in various fragmented ways... whether Awami League will not be allowed to participate in the election in this country, if they will be banned. We have made it clear that the people of Bangladesh will decide on this matter," he said.
He accused the AL of committing massacres and crimes against humanity.
"This party has carried out a massacre in Bangladesh with a fascist character and is responsible for crimes against humanity. Sheikh Hasina and the Awami League's political decisions have led to massacre in this country. Therefore, both the individuals and the organisation must face trial."
Referring to legal proceedings, he said, "There are cases against Sheikh Hasina and other responsible individuals in various courts, including the ICT, and their trials must be ensured. But as an organisation, a political party can be tried under Article 47 of the current constitution of Bangladesh."
Salahuddin said that the interim government has not prioritised the trial of the Awami League as an organisation.
"There was talk of amending the International Crimes Tribunal Act to try organisations, but the government has backed away from that. Now, some advisors within the government say they want the Awami League to be tried, but you have done nothing to ensure that trial."
"This government is operating according to this constitution. It has taken an oath as a legitimate government. Therefore, we are not very vocal about trying political organisations for genocide and crimes against humanity. No one is speaking out much. Some say that they will not allow the election, but what does the law say? The Election Commission will announce the schedule, and until then, those whose registration is valid will be able to participate in the election."
Role of media and democratic process
Salahuddin criticised the media for its role in supporting the AL government over the past 16 years.
"If fascist Hasina has ruled the state in a fascist manner, the role of the media has been significant. The owners of these media outlets, being owners of various business houses, have not allowed any news against the government to be published," he said.
New parties welcome... BUT
He also welcoming the emergence of democratic political parties through the political process but cautioned against using government power.
"If various tactics and the full force of the government are required to get elected, what is the point of blaming fascism? If we follow past history, how will we move forward?" he asked.
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