Early polls only solution to current crisis: Fakhrul

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said an early general election is the only way out of the present political restlessness across the country.

"Announcing an election schedule shortly should be the only aim right now to form parliament by elected representatives after completing reforms that are very much needed for building a democratic country."

Mr Fakhrul made the observations at a view-exchange meeting styled the 'Role of writers and artistes in rebuilding the country' hosted by the Jatiya Kabita Parishad at the National Press Club on Thursday.

"Many say election alone doesn't mean democracy. Yes, it's true. For this, we need to undergo a process. And if we don't follow the process, we won't achieve our goal," he opined.

"So, we should move ahead without creating divisions among us. It's a matter of great regret that we're yet to establish a system of transferring power peacefully even after 53 years of the country's independence."

The BNP leader further said, "Given the current crisis, it's undoubtedly a bit difficult task to build a democratic Bangladesh. Yet, we have to do that."

He stressed the need for forging unity among those who believe in building a pro-people society and state by burying fascism.

Criticising the Indian media, Mr Fakhrul said, "Some Indian media persons phoned me (on Wednesday night). They had only one question-what are you (BNP) doing about ISKCON?"

"This question is absolutely motivated as they want to create a situation. They failed primarily and are now trying to create another situation... We all must stay alert to this end."

"Right now, everybody should remain calm and observe the situation to move accordingly. I don't see any other way but to move together... Let us move together and build a democratic society and country," continued Mr Fakhrul.

Regarding this fluid situation, he said, "I think it has been created in a planned manner by the deposed fascist. We have fought and struggled together against fascism, so why are we creating splits among us?

Different comments from different places appear that a quarter is trying to divert the movement to a different direction, according to Mr Fakhrul.

"Fascism has been defeated, but it might stage a comeback anytime. So, let us not create that scope for its resurgence," he said, adding that the fear of resurgence of fascism has mounted due to some unfortunate incidents.

Jatiya Kabita Parishad convener Mohon Raihan presided over the event, attended by former DUCSU VP Mujahedul Islam Selim, Nagorik Oikya president Mahmudur Rahman Manna, Biplobi Workers Party general secretary Saiful Haque, Gonosanghati Andolon chief coordinator Zonaid Saki, BNP vice-chairman Nurul Islam Moni, writer and intellectual Salimullah Khan, journalist Abu Sayeed Khan, Jatiya Press Club president, Kaler Kantha editor and poet Hasan Hafiz, and poet and journalist Sohrab Hasan.

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