Staff Reporter:
BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said the interim government and the National Consensus Commission have betrayed the people in the name of reform.
The commission’s final recommendations on implementing the July National Charter differed sharply from what political parties had agreed upon, he said while addressing a discussion at the Jatiya Press Club on Friday.
Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal (JSD) organized the event marking the 53rd founding anniversary of this left-leaning political organisation.
“When the commission presented its report to the Chief Adviser, many points were altered. The notes of dissent that were meant to be reflected in the document were ignored,” he said. “We trusted them, but they betrayed that trust and deceived the people — something we never expected from them.”
The BNP leader said those demanding a referendum before the national election were trying to confuse the public and derail the democratic process.
“Those who have created confusion and taken to the streets over this issue — I urge them to stop deceiving the people. Please, do not stand against the election the nation is waiting for,” Fakhrul said.
Referring to Jamaat-e-Islami without mentioning the party’s name, he urged the party to respect the people’s demand for a fair vote.
“You opposed the Liberation War in 1971; please don’t stand against the people’s right to an election now,” he said.
Fakhrul warned that those acting against the will of the people will be rejected. “The people of this country never forgive betrayal. Step away from that path. Participate in the election, and let the people’s right be restored through their votes — that’s what we all want,” he said.
On the issue of reforms, the BNP secretary general said his party has already initiated the process and remains committed to the agreed-upon changes.
“We want reforms, and we have already begun. We have signed the charter. We have not caused confusion — we will implement the reforms we agreed to,” he affirmed.
Accusing a section of political actors of conspiring to delay or derail the election, Fakhrul said, “A vested quarter is desperate to obstruct the polls. But we are determined to move forward. We want to form a national government with those who have stood by us for the past 15 years.”
He called on all parties to ensure a peaceful, competitive, and credible election. “Let us make this election meaningful. Let us build a government truly chosen by the people.”
