Fakhrul blames certain quarters for creating obstructions to holding nat'l elections

BNP Secretary-General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Sunday said despite having confusion, frustration and uncertainty among the people, the possibility of holding the next national elections has now emerged, most likely in February 2026.
Speaking as the chief guest at a discussion marking the 49th death anniversary of Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani at the National Press Club, he said certain quarters are deliberately trying to create instability to obstruct or delay the polls.
Fakhrul said a particular section is raising various demands to disrupt the election process.
"But what the people need the most now is an elected government backed by public mandate," he said, urging all political parties to support the election process without delay and help create an environment for electing public representatives.
He, however, warned that the country's economic situation is deteriorating day by day and will worsen further if there is no elected government.
The law-and-order situation is also weakening in the absence of an elected authority, he added.
The BNP leader alleged that a vested quarter is plotting to create chaos centering Monday's verdict on the genocide committed by what he described as "fascist Hasina."
Political divisions and instability may give some groups the opportunity to unleash violence, he said, adding that responsible behaviour from all parties is necessary ahead of the election.
Speaking at the discussion, economist Mahbub Ullah said although the government has announced with confidence that the national election would be held in February, 2026, the evolving situation suggests "a dark cloud" over the process.
If the election is not held on time, the country may face a major crisis, he warned.
Mr. Mahbub also expressed doubts over the people's ability to understand the four referendum questions that are scheduled to be held alongside the national election.
A large segment of the population is still illiterate, so the process would be complicated for many, he said.
Mr. Mahbub Ullah called for political unity among democratic forces, saying democracy is essential to protect the country's independence and sovereignty.
He also warned that the people will not tolerate any obstruction to the democratic process.
Recalling India's support for Sheikh Hasina's previous elections, which lacked public participation, he said resisting external dominance also requires a strong democratic foundation.
He urged the Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus to ensure that the election announced is held in February successfully and without any obstacles as per the announcement
The event was presided over by BNP Vice Chairman Shamsuzzaman. BNP's Joint Secretary Generals Syed Moazzem Hossain Alal and Abdus Salam Azad also spoke on the occasion.

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