BNP Official Warns Interim Government Against Aggressive Stance on Referendum
Dhaka, Nov. 8 – Salahuddin Ahmed, a member of the BNP Standing Committee, has issued a strong warning to the interim government against adopting an overly assertive approach in its efforts to secure political consensus on the referendum issue. He criticized the administration for setting a seven-day deadline, stating that such a move is inappropriate for a non-elected government.
“The government must remember it is not an elected one. Your mandate extends only to holding a free and fair election, and BNP’s support will continue only up to that point,” he emphasized during a speech at an event organized by Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal in the capital.
Salahuddin also expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s practice of involving other parties to facilitate dialogue with BNP. “This is not a decent approach. Invite us directly if you truly want dialogue – don’t hide behind other parties,” he said.
He highlighted that BNP maintains active communication with all political parties, including the National Citizen Party (NCP) and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami. Recalling his own initiative in proposing the referendum idea, Salahuddin stressed that turning it into a divisive issue is unacceptable. “The referendum must take place on the same day as the national election. Holding it separately would be costly and impractical.”
Additionally, he criticized the recent ultimatums issued by Islamist parties regarding the referendum. “Whom are you warning? The government is already working in your favor. So, who are these ultimatums really for?” he questioned.
Concerns Over Government Actions and Electoral Plans
Salahuddin also raised concerns about the chief adviser’s endorsement of the Consensus Commission’s recommendations, calling it a “clear conflict of interest.” He claimed that the commission’s report “fails to reflect months of discussion” and pointed out that the commission’s tenure has expired, with its members having returned to the United States.
Regarding the upcoming 13th national election, Salahuddin mentioned that the schedule is likely to be announced in early December, providing approximately two months for campaigning. “Within that time, all propaganda by fascists and their allies will collapse,” he said, encouraging Chhatra Dal activists to actively campaign for BNP candidates in their constituencies.
Advice for Student Leaders
In addition to his political comments, Salahuddin offered advice to student leaders, urging them to enhance their intellectual capacity by reading more books. “The politics of the future will be based on merit, the era of empty rhetoric is over,” he stated.
BNP Candidate Airlifted for Medical Treatment
In a separate development, BNP candidate Ershad Ullah was airlifted to Dhaka for medical treatment. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by political figures in the current environment.