BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has expressed optimism that the expected meeting between Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus and his party acting Chairman Tarique Rahman in London will usher in a fresh breeze for democracy in Bangladesh, reports UNB.
"I believe this meeting will be historic and bring a fresh breeze for Bangladesh's democracy. This meeting is very important," he told journalists during a briefing at BNP's Nayapaltan central office in the capital on Wednesday.
Rizvi said the entire nation is now looking towards the London meeting with great expectations, as the formal talks between Prof Yunus and Tarique are seen as a source of joy.
He hoped that this meeting would play an important role in safeguarding and strengthening Bangladesh's 'unfortunate democracy'.
"This meeting is expected to resist the return of fascism and ensure that democracy is not destroyed by aggressive forces. It will be crucial in reinforcing and perpetuating democratic norms in the country," the BNP leader said.
Replying to a question, he reiterated BNP's stance on holding general election in December, saying the party has already presented logical grounds for this timeline.
"The people of the country also consider December to be the logical time for elections. Discussions are going on… we will know the outcome later," Rizvi said.
He is also hopeful that the existing national problems, including the timing of the election, can be resolved through this crucial meeting.
Earlier on Tuesday, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir confirmed that Tarique Rahman is set to hold a formal meeting with Prof Yunus, who is currently visiting the United Kingdom, on June 13 (Friday) in London.
Talking to reporters at the BNP Chairperson's Gulshan office, he said the meeting will take place at the hotel where the Chief Adviser is currently staying in London.
Rizvi strongly criticised the neighbouring country, India, for what he said showing growing hostility towards Bangladesh and the continuing push-ins of people through the borders.
"This neighbouring country is becoming dangerously antagonistic. Especially, regarding Sheikh Hasina's downfall, they are turning increasingly aggressive," he said.
Labelling people as foreigners, Rizvi said incidents of push-in are happening every day through various borders with India. "There are deliberate provocations and attempts to spark conflict. There's now a surge in push-ins along the border. Is Bangladesh a dumping ground?" he questioned.
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