A four-member BNP delegation sat in a meeting with Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus on Saturday evening as part of efforts to defuse mounting political tension in the country.
The meeting, led by BNP Standing Committee Member Dr Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain, began at 7:35pm at the Chief Advisers’ official residence Jamuna.
The other members of the delegation included Standing Committee Members Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan, Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury and Salahuddin Ahmed.
Speaking to reporters earlier in the day after attending a programme in the capital, BNP Standing Committee Member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury said their discussion with the Chief Adviser would focus on the prevailing political situation, the upcoming general election and a roadmap for returning to democratic governance.
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“In the current context, there is no alternative to a credible and prompt election if we are to restore the democratic order. “Today’s discussion will centre on how and how quickly this can be achieved,” the BNP leader said.
He also said a formal agenda was not necessary for the meeting, given the urgency of the situation. “The most pressing issue for Bangladesh now is to determine how we move forward and how we can return to a democratic order as soon as possible.”
The BNP leader said is not possible to restore the democratic order in the country without a credible election. “This is the central issue, and I am sure it will be discussed today.”
When asked whether the country was in a crisis following reports of the Chief Adviser’s intention to resign, Khosru said BNP does not view the situation as a crisis.
He said the country urgently needs an elected and accountable government and parliament, established through a fair and transparent election. “This is the only way to overcome all the challenges we are currently facing.”
Highlighting the sacrifices made by the people over the past 16 years, Khosru said they are now awaiting the restoration of democracy.
In response to a question about whether BNP expects to be satisfied with this round of talks—given reports of dissatisfaction during their previous meeting with Dr Yunus—Khosru replied, “This is not about our satisfaction. We do politics for the satisfaction of people. We reflect their hopes and aspirations. The nation wants to elect a government through their vote—that is what matters most.”
Responding to another question, he indicated that the election could be held before December. “Why should we wait until December?”
At another programme, BNP Standing Committee Member Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan said democratic transition is the only solution to the country’s ongoing crisis and evolving political scenario.
“Bangladesh was under dictatorship for 15 years. So, the only solution now is a transition to democracy. There is no alternative for the 180 million people of the country,” he said during a discussion.
Dr Moyeen posed a question to the nation, reflecting on the developments of the past nine months, during which, he said, the people of Bangladesh had started singing songs of freedom following the transformative events of 5 August.
“August 5 was a historic day for every citizen, marking liberation from 15 years of tyranny and dictatorship. It was the beginning of a new era of democratic transition… That transition is the only way forward amid the current uncertainties. The 180 million people of Bangladesh must realise, understand and accept this truth,” he asserted.
According to media reports, Chief Adviser Prof Yunus was considering resignation, frustrated by various political parties’ demonstrations and comments made by the Army Chief during an officers’ address on Wednesday regarding the government and the election.