Tarique: The longer the delay to hold elections, the greater the problems

Tarique Rahman, the acting chairman of BNP, has said that elections are essential for restoring democracy and implementing reforms as the longer elections are delayed, the more problems the country will face

He was speaking as the chief guest at Chuadanga District BNP’s conference on Saturday.

Highlighting the importance of elections, he said: “All problems can be resolved only through elections. Popular representatives are essential to address these issues. We must emphasize to both the government and the people that elections are the only solution. To rebuild the country, elections are the only path where people can exercise their voting rights.”

He further said: “Those elected to parliament through elections will carry out real reforms and fulfil the aspirations of the people. If the government can ensure a neutral election, elected representatives will voice the concerns of the public and make decisions to resolve national issues. They will bring reforms to every sector of the country.”

Tarique Rahman said: “When someone is elected through voting, they focus on specific responsibilities. The person elected today at this conference will care for the party workers. Elected representatives act out of a sense of duty, strengthening constitutional foundations and fostering capable leaders.”

He said: “Bangladesh has been freed from dictatorship. An interim government is now governing the country, supported by those who fought against dictatorship for years, including the BNP. For restoring people's rights, an election is necessary to empower them.”

Describing reforms as a continuous process, Tarique Rahman said: “BNP proposed a 31-point reform agenda two years ago, even before the current government’s reform proposals. Reform is an ongoing process initiated by one and carried forward by others. It’s not a one-day task.”

He emphasized: “The reforms proposed by the chief adviser can only be implemented through fair elections. Delaying elections will increase conspiracies. Those who ousted dictatorship are not idle; they are plotting with local and foreign forces. The longer the delay, the greater the problems.”

Addressing party activists, he said: “If you believe BNP is the people’s party, reach out to the people. When the BNP governed, it restored democracy and saved the country from famine. Under the leadership of Ziaur Rahman and Khaleda Zia, the nation progressed. Most people believe BNP’s leadership will drive the country forward. Prepare yourselves for responsibility, fulfil local expectations, and prove yourselves as soldiers of Shaheed Zia. If you prepare, people will entrust you with responsibility.”

At the rally, Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir echoed Tarique’s sentiments, saying: “Sustainable reforms require public representatives and, for that, we need a functioning parliament. Some say BNP only demands elections, but our demand for elections is to save the nation, protect democracy, and restore the people's right to vote.”

He continued: “We have made it clear that we want to entrust the responsibility of the state to the youth. We have no issues with students or the younger generation. Our goal is to form a government that includes everyone.”