"Neutrality is the interim government's greatest asset in ensuring a free and fair election. However, concerns over its impartiality have already emerged among the people. I urge the government to be more vigilant in upholding neutrality," he said during his inaugural speech at BNP's extended meeting.
Tarique alleged that efforts were being made to undermine "national unity" and disrupt the electoral environment ahead of the national elections.
"Those who once sought to turn Bangladesh into a vassal state have not ceased their conspiracies. A deliberate confusion is being created over issues such as reforms and local elections," he said.
"While the chief adviser's statements on various occasions have fostered positive expectations, misleading remarks from some advisers have frustrated pro-democracy and freedom-loving citizens," he added.
Despite unconditional support from BNP and other pro-democracy parties, the interim government has yet to set clear priorities in its action plan, Tarique claimed.
"When the government is failing to control price hike of essentials and ensure law and order, the public does not understand why it is complicating matters further by prioritising local elections over national polls," he said.
He argued that holding local
elections before the national polls would effectively "rehabilitate allies of fugitive autocrats," contradicting the people's aspirations for a democratic uprising.
"BNP will not fall into the trap of rehabilitating mass murderers, money launderers, and corrupt mafia groups," he said.
Calling on the interim government to abandon plans for local elections that would "rehabilitate the allies of mass murderers," Tarique demanded, "Immediately announce a clear roadmap for the government's action plan in the coming days."
He also pointed out that 16–17 new political parties had emerged since Sheikh Hasina fled the country.
"As a party committed to multi-party democracy, BNP welcomes all new political parties and organisations. Ultimately, it is the people who will decide through elections whether to accept or reject them. Therefore, the Election Commission must first ensure it is prepared to conduct a free and fair national election with the participation of all parties," he added.
