Govt must switch to 'caretaker' mode: Khasru

Senior BNP leader Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has said the interim government must immediately begin functioning in the manner of a 'caretaker' administration for the sake of neutrality ahead of the upcoming general election, report agencies.

The BNP standing committee member made the remarks while speaking at a discussion, titled "The Importance of the Upcoming National Election in Protecting Bangladesh's Independence and Sovereignty," arranged by Jatiyatabadi Muktijoddha Dal at the Jatiya Press Club in the capital on Wednesday..

He said since the present interim government will effectively perform the duty of a caretaker government in the upcoming election, it must assume the role of the caretaker administration immediately.

"Assuming the role of the caretaker government means taking a completely neutral position," he added.

Referring to the interim government, Amir Khosru said neutrality cannot be maintained by allowing people inside or outside the government who have the opportunity to violate that neutrality to remain in place.

"This question arises for multiple reasons. We have observed that the government's stance on many appointments, transfers, and other issues is being influenced by certain individuals."

He noted that those who are controversial, intend to participate in the upcoming election, or are associated with any political party should not remain in the government, as they cannot then function as a caretaker administration.

Khosru added that the Constitution clearly outlines how a caretaker government should function, and the current administration must now conduct all activities in line with those provisions.

He also suggested that the interim government should refrain from taking any major policy decisions at this stage and gradually limit itself to routine administrative duties.