BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury on Saturday claimed that at least 52 political parties across the country are demanding that the next national elections be held by December.
"Only those parties that were formed after August 5 are not demanding elections by December," he said, suggesting that the majority of the political spectrum is in favour of timely polls.
Khasru made the remarks at a discussion organised by Zia Parishad at the National Press Club in Dhaka to mark the 44th martyrdom anniversary of BNP founder and former President Ziaur Rahman.
Challenging narratives that the BNP stands alone in demanding timely elections, he said, "If someone claims that only one party wants elections by December-is that even true? Is this being said about us (BNP)? What does such a comment imply?"
He also questioned the rationale for delaying the elections, stating, "Investors, both local and international, are asking when the polls will be held. People are waiting to make crucial decisions. How else can they express their desire for fair elections?"
Khasru sharply criticised a handful of parties opposing polls within the constitutional timeframe. "Only four or five parties are against elections by December. These groups are unregistered and disconnected from public sentiment," he asserted.
Drawing parallels with the political scenario post-One-Eleven, he said, "Even after One-Eleven, a party called 'King's Party' was created to obstruct democracy. Are we repeating that path again? Only the parties born after August 5 oppose timely elections."
He expressed concern over what he called a growing disconnect between the interim government and the people. "There is no accountability. Everyone is doing as they please. The longer this continues, the greater the harm. This cannot go on," he warned.
Calling for urgent electoral reforms, Khasru emphasized, "The only way forward is through an election that leads to a truly representative parliament-one that is accountable to the people."
He stressed the need for unity to restore democracy. "The path to a peaceful transition lies in national consensus. Everyone must raise the demand for elections together."
Referring to recent political developments, he remarked, "Much has changed since Sheikh Hasina fled. Political parties that fail to grasp this reality have no future in Bangladesh."
Addressing his party colleagues, Khasru urged them to uphold democratic values. "If BNP returns to power, we must not repeat the mistakes of fascist rule. Just as we defended civil rights in opposition, we must safeguard those rights in government."
Reflecting on Ziaur Rahman's legacy, he added, "Zia involved the people in every sphere of state affairs. The new generation now wants to see a future. We must present them with a vision and earn their trust."
The discussion was presided over by Zia Parishad Vice Chairman Md. Shafiqul Islam. Among others, BNP Chairperson's Advisers Syed Moazzem Hossain Alal and Abdul Hai Sikder, who is also the editor of Daily Jugantor, spoke at the event.
