Amid growing political debate over reports that interim government Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus is considering resignation, senior BNP leader Salahuddin Ahmed has stated that BNP neither seeks nor supports his resignation.
He also clarified that the party has not exerted any pressure on Dr. Yunus to step down.
Speaking to a private television channel on Friday (May 23), the BNP Standing Committee member said, "There is no pressure from BNP for the Chief Adviser to resign. BNP does not want him to step down. However, if he voluntarily wishes to leave, the nation will choose an alternative — because no one is indispensable in this world."
Salahuddin emphasized that a resignation would not create a vacuum, but the BNP hopes Dr. Yunus will stay on with dignity and lead the nation out of crisis by presenting a clear electoral roadmap.
"If instead of declaring an electoral roadmap, he chooses to resign, that would be his personal decision. We have not called for his resignation. And if he truly feels incapable of carrying out his duties, the state will not remain idle. The nation will find an alternative course," he said.
Salahuddin, a senior voice within the BNP leadership, reiterated the party's expectations: "We hope Dr. Yunus, a globally respected figure, will understand the gravity of the situation and announce a roadmap for elections to be held by December in line with national aspirations."
He further revealed that the BNP has been trying to meet the Chief Adviser since Monday (May 19), but without success. He attributed this to the influence of certain elements within the administration who remain aligned with the Awami League or are driven by personal ambitions.
"There are those within the government who still consider the BNP their adversary," he said.
Responding to comments made by political figure Sarjis Alam — who alleged that BNP's movement forced Dr. Yunus to consider resignation — Salahuddin dismissed the claim.
"Our movement had nothing to do with demanding Yunus's resignation. Our protests were focused on the issue of Ishraque Hossain, who, despite a court ruling in his favor, was not being sworn in as mayor. Interpreting this as pressure for resignation is misleading."
