BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has stated that if the Election Commission (EC) functions properly, a national election could be held by June-July, rather than December.
He warned that delaying the election would lead to a loss of public trust in the interim government.
Speaking at an event in Rajshahi's Bhubon Mohon Park on Friday morning, Rizvi expressed these views.
The event was organized as a prayer meeting to honour the families of those injured and those martyred in Rajshahi and Chapainawabganj during the law enforcement crackdown during July uprising last year.
The gathering also aimed to highlight the youth-led uprising against the "fascist" rule of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Rizvi remarked that the interim government should be viewed as a caretaker government, responsible for holding national elections. "The people are eagerly waiting for the election," he said, adding that there should be no other elections before the national one.
Rizvi also raised concerns about India’s involvement in discussions with the United States regarding Bangladesh, questioning why India was so invested in Bangladesh's affairs.
He criticized Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for being complicit in India's actions, stating, "India has turned into a backyard for Sheikh Hasina's allies. Despite Indian border guards killing Bangladeshis indiscriminately, the Hasina government has remained silent and submissive in its foreign policy." He further accused her of being a "puppet" in India’s hands.
Referring to the past, Rizvi said, "Sheikh Hasina was once the leader of a gang, committing atrocities like killing students. When she fled Bangladesh, India offered her refuge and support."
The event was chaired by 'Amra BNP Poribar' Convener Atiqur Rahman Rumman, with the program host by Secretary of the Rajshahi Metropolitan BNP, Mamunur Rashid. Prominent attendees included Rajshahi Metropolitan BNP Convener Ershad Ali Isha, Senior Joint Convener Nazrul Huda, District BNP Convener Abu Sayeed Chand, and others.
FA/SH