The BNP warns of impending instability in Bangladesh if elections are delayed past December 2023, due to concerns over the current interim government. Calls for immediate elections have been emphasized, while the BNP remains confident in its electoral success if elections occur soon. The party is also open to collaborations with other democratic entities.

The opposition in Bangladesh has issued a clear warning regarding potential instability if elections do not occur by December 2023, following remarks from the interim prime minister about a possible delay until 2026. This warning stems from concerns regarding the existing unelected interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, replacing the former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina after she fled to India amid protests.

Both the Awami League, led by Hasina, and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) previously called for elections last year. However, Yunus suggested that the elections might be postponed to allow time for reforms aimed at ensuring credible electoral processes. Opponents have accused Hasina’s administration of committing electoral fraud in the past, allegations which she has contested.

A senior BNP official, Abdul Moyeen Khan, highlighted the party’s demand for immediate elections, emphasizing the growing discontent among the populace. Khan affirmed that postponing elections past December would exacerbate tensions and lead to instability. He is currently in Washington, D.C., advocating for dialogue with U.S. officials regarding the political situation in Bangladesh.

Despite the challenges posed by the interim government, Khan asserts that the BNP remains optimistic about its electoral prospects, indicating that internal surveys predict a significant victory if elections are held soon. He mentioned that the party’s acting leader, Tarique Rahman, may return from exile if elections are confirmed. Former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, currently recovering in London, is reportedly in better health than during her time in Bangladesh, although her return to active politics appears unlikely.

Additionally, Khan noted that while the BNP does not currently plan to collaborate as a coalition, it remains open to forming alliances with other democratic parties, including the newly formed Jatiya Nagorik Party. The overall message from the BNP is one of urgency for restoring democratic processes in Bangladesh, with emphasis on stability and national unity post-election.

In summary, the opposition in Bangladesh, particularly the BNP, has expressed serious concerns regarding the potential for instability if elections are postponed beyond December 2023. Although the interim prime minister suggests reforms may necessitate delay, the BNP is advocating assertively for immediate elections, promising to facilitate dialogue and cooperation with other democratic forces post-election. Given the evolving political landscape, the demand for timely elections remains a pivotal issue in Bangladesh’s quest for democratic restoration.

Original Source: www.thenews.com.pk

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