Staff Reporter:
BNP Standing Committee member Dr AZM Zahid Hossain on Monday called upon the interim govern-ment to swiftly create a favorable environment for the upcoming elections to facilitate the transfer of power to elected representatives.
“In our 31-point proposal, we have detailed the reforms we seek. To implement these reforms, we urge the interim government to promptly create a conducive electoral environment and return power to peo-ple,” he said.
Talking to reporters at BNP founder Zaiur Rahman’s grave, Zahid also strongly opposed the proposals from various political parties and civil society about implementing a proportional representation system in the upcoming parliamentary elections.
The BNP leader said the election must be held based on parliamentary seats system as prescribed by the constitution formulated in 1972. “No one can impose a proportional representation system against the will of people. It is ultimately up to people to decide which electoral process will be adopted.”
Zahid along with BNP leaders and activists paid homage to Zia by placing a wreath at his grave, marking the homecoming of UK chapter BNP leaders, including its general Secretary Koysor M Ahmed after a long time.
Zahid said the nation freed itself from autocratic rule as the despotic ruler Sheikh Hasina fled the coun-try on August 5. “However, the associates of the autocrats remain in Bangladesh and are plotting to un-dermine the current interim government,” he said.
He said that their party has long been carrying out a movement that will continue until democracy is restored, people’s rights are upheld, and an environment is created that allows citizens to peacefully exer-cise their right to vote for electing their representatives.
The BNP leader said they will also continue their movement for the trial of those who oppressed people, committed genocide and engaged in enforced disappearances.
When asked about the rumours that the Awami League president will hold a rally in India, Zahid said, “India is a sovereign country. I don’t think India would allow its territory to be politically used against another country. I believe that Indian politicians and the government are not that foolish.”
