Army magistracy power across country may create problems

THAKURGAON, Sept 19 (UNB): BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has voiced concern over the recent decision to grant magistracy powers to the army, saying that it is likely to lead to the emergence of new problems, reports UNB.

He came up with the remarks while speaking at a programme at the Thakurgaon Press Club on Thursday.

He urged the interim government to reconsider giving the army magistracy powers across the country, as this move reflects a failure of other institutions to carry out their responsibilities effectively.

"The army has been given magistracy powers. This is a concerning development, as it indicates a failure of the administration to maintain law and order. It also suggests that other institutions are not functioning," the BNP leader said.

Fakhrul said he believes that the army should be granted magistracy powers only in areas that have become out of control.

He, however, said in peaceful areas where political leaders are managing the situation, empowering the army with magistracy powers would not be appropriate and could create new problems. "It wouldn't be a prudent move."

"I urge the interim government to reconsider this matter. They should not take any such steps that could ultimately backfire on them and be detrimental to politics and the people of the country," he said.

At the programme, Fakhrul spoke with the family members of those killed and injured in Thakurgaon during the student-led anti-discrimination movement at the press club's VIP hall. He also provided them with financial assistance.

The BNP secretary general said they are hopeful that the interim government will eliminate all obstacles and create an environment conducive to a fair and inclusive democratic election.

"A parliament representing the people will be formed through that election. I urge the interim government to ensure that we can genuinely achieve a democratic state. Democracy means having an elected government and a functioning parliament," he said.

Fakhrul also stated that he believes allowing politicians to fulfil their political duties is the only solution to the country's political problems.

He said the interim government, led by Dr Muhammad Yunus, was formed with the support of all following the fall of Sheikh Hasina's regime. "They (govt) are working to bring to justice for the crimes committed by Sheikh Hasina's administration within a short period. Sheikh Hasina was the main perpetrator behind these crimes, and thousands of lives have been lost under her orders."

Fakhrul pointed out that the oppression under Sheikh Hasina's regime began well before the recent student and public movements, dating back to 2012.

He claimed that over 700 members of the BNP were forcibly disappeared and taken to 'Ayna Ghar,' while several thousand party leaders and activists were killed.

The BNP leader said his party also seeks reforms, as they do not wish to see a situation where people are subjected to injustice and oppression.

"There should be no more shootings and killings of children. I urge the government to compile a list of those injured in the anti-discrimination movement and take the necessary measures for their medical treatment," he said.

Fakhrul became emotional while speaking about the victims of the student-led mass movement against Sheikh Hasina.