The head of Bangladesh’s Jatiya Nagorik Party, Nahid Islam, expressed doubts about the feasibility of elections this year due to ongoing civil unrest. Following the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the interim government aims for elections by late 2025. Islam emphasizes the need for a consensus on a proposed charter to reflect public aspirations before elections can be held.

In an exclusive interview with Reuters, Nahid Islam, head of the newly established Jatiya Nagorik Party (NCP), expressed concerns over the feasibility of conducting general elections in Bangladesh this year due to ongoing unrest. The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, indicated elections might occur by the end of 2025, yet political instability persists. “In the current law and order situation and policing system, I don’t think it is possible to hold a national election,” stated Islam.

Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was removed from power amid significant protests last August. Islam, who formerly served as an adviser within the interim government, is notably the first prominent politician to question Yunus’ proposed election timeline. The NCP represents a potential shift in the political landscape, traditionally dominated by Hasina’s Awami League and Khaleda Zia’s Bangladesh Nationalist Party. Both have called for early elections.

Reports indicate rising unrest, with attacks on properties associated with Hasina’s government and escalating tensions among student groups. Moreover, there have been incidents targeting minorities, which the interim government has dismissed as exaggerated. While the NCP is prepared for the upcoming elections, Islam emphasized the need for consensus regarding the ‘Proclamation of the July Revolution’, a charter intended to embody public aspirations and memorialize those lost in last year’s violence.

Islam noted, “If we can reach that consensus within a month, we can call for elections immediately. But if it takes more time, the election should be deferred.” He also mentioned that his party, supported by affluent contributors, is planning to pursue crowdfunding for operational needs and election preparations.

In conclusion, the upcoming elections in Bangladesh face significant hurdles due to prevailing unrest, as articulated by Nahid Islam of the Jatiya Nagorik Party. His concerns regarding law enforcement and public safety underscore the challenges the interim government faces in restoring stability. The call for a consensus on the ‘Proclamation of the July Revolution’ is critical for any forthcoming elections. Without addressing these issues, there exists a real possibility that elections may be postponed beyond the currently anticipated timeframe.

Original Source: www.usnews.com

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