Speaking to reporters at the BNP central office in Nayapaltan on Tuesday afternoon, Rizvi said, “The proposal to call for a referendum next November is like asking for a favor from your uncle. If the referendum can be held on the same day as the national election, it will save both time and public funds. However, the issues to be put to a vote must be made clear to the people they should know exactly which reforms are being proposed.”
He further noted that it is up to the interim government to decide whether the Awami League will remain active or face restrictions. “Those involved in crimes must be brought to justice,” he added.
Rizvi cautioned political groups against overconfidence, saying, “It is wrong to assume that winning student council elections in educational institutions guarantees victory in national elections. For Jamaat-e-Islami, thinking that everything is already achieved would be a suicidal mistake.”
Commenting on the upcoming polls, the BNP leader said, “Elections are conducted under the government, not under any political party. Therefore, people have no doubts about these elections. Rather, a sense of confidence has been restored among the public that a fair and impartial election is possible under the interim government.”
Rizvi reiterated that holding the national election and referendum simultaneously would reduce expenses and ease administrative processes. However, he emphasized the need for transparency, saying, “No matter how logical the referendum proposal appears, it must be clearly stated what issues the public will be asked to vote on before implementation.”
Addressing party leaders and activists, Rizvi urged patience and discipline. “We must show restraint in the face of any provocation. Our movement must remain peaceful and lawful,” he said.
