Mirza Abbas doubts timely election under interim govt

BNP senior leader Mirza Abbas on Wednesday expressed doubts over whether the interim government will hold the election timely in line with people's expectations as some cohorts of Awami League are trying to mislead the Chief Adviser (CA) to disrupt the polls, reports UNB.

"The Election Commission will conduct the election as per people's expectations. Dr Muhammad Yunus has placed us in an embarrassing situation by suggesting that the election will be held in December or June," he said at a discussion.

Ganatantra Forum organised the programme titled 'Democracy, Reform and Reality in the Current Context' at the Jatiya Press Club in the city.

After the CA said the election would be held by December, Abbas pointed out that one of his officials had stated it would take place by June. "He (CA) later endorsed it. So, there is quite a strong argument to be made that this is an effort to prevent the election from taking place."

Abbas, a BNP Standing Committee member, said there is a saying-hope for the best and prepare for the worst. "From that worst-case thinking, I believe the government probably won't hold elections anytime soon. I see no indication of that happening. This is my personal opinion, not my party's."

He, however, still hopes the government will take steps towards holding the election in line with the people's aspirations. "There's no alternative to the election."

Abbas said BNP wants both reforms and elections. "But there is no need for unnecessary reforms beyond what the people require. Elections are the alternative to elections. We must hold the election after implementing the reforms necessary for the people of the country."

More news from Manikganj adds: BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Wednesday said it is now the responsibility of the interim government to decide how it will handle Awami League as the entire state machinery is in their hands.

"AL activists have the money to buy petrol to burn houses, the funds to acquire arms to kill people. The government should clarify to people what laws will be enacted to stop this. The administration is under your control," he said, pointing at the interim government," he said.

Rizvi was talking to reporters after visiting the burnt home of artist Manabendra Ghosh in Sadar upazila of Manikganj.

"You've received support from all pro-democracy forces. But constitutionally and legally there is no basis for an interim government. Those who fought for democracy have backed you and you are now running the country with that support," he said.

Rizvi alleged that Awami League loyalists were still active in various places lying in wait.