BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Sunday said the interim government should operate within the constitutional framework avoiding any imprudent steps. “The only way to overcome every crisis is to hold a credible national election after completing all the necessary reforms related to the electoral process,” he said. The BNP leader made the remarks while speaking to reporters after placing a wreath at the grave of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman, accompanied by leaders and members of Jatiyatabadi Jubo Dal, marking its 46th founding anniversary. Asked about BNP’s position on the removal of President Mohammed Shahabuddin following the meeting with students, he said, “We can’t provide BNP's position like this... we have a party forum, and we will clarify our stance after discussing it at that forum meeting.” Fakhrul emphasised that what is essential is a national unity to consolidate the revolution in Bangladesh and harvest its results. “We believe that all actions should be conducted within a constitutional framework without resorting to any arbitrary measures.” He said their party has consistently urged the government to arrange an impartial election swiftly by implementing necessary electoral reforms. Sought comments if BNP believes the crisis will worsen if the election is delayed, he responded that the government must take immediate steps to organise the national election to address the crisis. “A constitutional political force should take charge of the country and govern through a neutral election. This alone can resolve all crises.” Fakhrul appreciated the role of Jubo Dal in the student-led mass uprising aimed at overthrowing the fascist regime of Sheikh Hasina. By placing a wreath at Zia’s grave, he said they pledged that they would protect at any cost Bangladesh’s independence. “BNP and its associate bodies never compromised on the question of Bangladesh’s independence and sovereignty, and they won’t do it in the future,” Fakhrul said. He said the nation was liberated for the second time by ousting the fascist Awami League on August 5 after a long struggle and Jubo Dal played a significant role there. Fakhrul said Jubo Dal has now become much stronger under the leadership of BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman. “Jubo Dal will surely play an active role in consolidating the country’s independence and sovereignty, making the student-led mass uprising meaningful.” He urged the Jubo Dal to remain alert to resist and defeat the enemies of Bangladesh. Jubo Dal President Abdul Monayem Munna and General Secretary Nurul Islam Nayon, along with BNP senior leaders, went to Zia’s grave at 11:30am and paid homage to Zia. They also offered fateha there and prayed for the eternal peace of the soul of Ziaur Rahman. BNP Standing Committee member Gayeshwar Chandra Roy, Vice Chairman Barkat Ullah Bulu, Chairperson’s advisory council member Syed Moazzem Hossain Alal, BNP publicity secretary Sultan Salahuddin Tuku, and former Jubo Dal President Saiful Alam Nirab were, among others, present. Later in the afternoon, BNP Standing Committee member Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain inaugurated a day-long medical camp and voluntary blood donation programme at the BNP’s Nayapaltan central office, marking the Jubo Dal’s founding anniversary.