Country's ownership will be returned to people soon

Stating that the new generation is eagerly waiting to exercise their right to vote, BNP senior leader Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan has expressed the hope that people will get back their ownership of the country soon through a credible and impartial election, reports UNB.

"The new generation has not had the chance to vote (for a long time). They're eager to cast their ballots. It is our moral duty to provide them with the opportunity to do so," he said.

The BNP leader came up with the remarks while talking to journalists after paying tributes to BNP founder Ziaur Rahman by placing wreaths at his grave at Chandrima Udyan in the capital on Wednesday, marking the 46th founding anniversary of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD).

Dr Moyeen, a BNP standing committee member, along with JCD leaders and activists paid homage to Zia.

He said reforms will continue and it will not be halted for arranging the election. "We believe that the most important reforms will be carried out, and preparations for the election will proceed through coordination. The (ownership of the country) will be returned to the people as soon as possible through a fair and neutral election."

The BNP leader said his party has been consistently working to ensure essential reforms in administration, the police and the Election Commission.

"Reform is an ongoing process. Human civilisation has evolved through reforms, and they will never end. So, it's not a meaningful question whether reforms should come first and election later, or election first and reforms later. Reforms will continue at all times, while elections will be held after every five years," he said.

Dr Moyeen said the common people, all democratic parties, and student bodies, including Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal, participated in the July-August movement led by students to restore democracy, protect people's democratic and voting rights and establish a government of the people through free and fair elections.

"We look to the new generation, as they will lead the country in the future. It's a natural progression. We have confidence in them that they will return to their classes to complete their studies to be well-educated, and be prepared to play a significant role in running the country, pursuing the path of right, fairness and truth, with people's votes," the BNP leader said.