BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed on Saturday warned the interim government not to overstep its mandate, saying its only task is to hold a free, fair, and inclusive national election by December.
Speaking at a youth rally titled Tarunner Odhikar Pratistha Shomabesh at Khulna Circuit House ground, Salahuddin called on Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus to “honour the commitment he made” regarding timely elections.
“You are a globally respected figure, but do not undermine that respect by using reform and justice as excuses to delay democracy,” he said.
The rally, organised by BNP’s affiliated wings — Chhatra Dal, Jubo Dal, and Swechchhasebak Dal — drew large crowds from Khulna and Barishal divisions.
Salahuddin accused the interim government of favouritism toward the National Citizen Party (NCP), alleging that two NCP-aligned individuals hold advisory roles. “Everyone knows! It’s an open secret. If you truly wish to maintain neutrality, ask them to step down. If they won’t, you must remove them,” he demanded.
He said that the interim government was formed in the wake of a mass uprising. “But don’t think that we want you to remain in power until the Day of Judgment (Qiyamat),” he warned.
Additionally, he was particularly critical of the appointment of a foreign national as the country’s national security adviser.
“How can Bangladesh’s military share sensitive reports with a foreigner? Has the interim government lost its sense?” he asked.
Salahuddin alleged that under the guise of creating a humanitarian corridor for Rohingyas, that adviser intends to turn Bangladesh into a conflict zone. “This is unacceptable. Either the adviser resigns or he must be removed,” he demanded.
The senior BNP leader also issued a broader warning about foreign influence, questioning what contracts had been signed abroad that now allow foreign powers a stake in Bangladesh’s ports and corridors. “You have no mandate to hand over the country’s assets. Your only mandate is to organise a credible general election,” said Salahuddin, addressing Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus.
Taking aim at the now defunct Awami League, Salahuddin accused the party of historic and ongoing repression. Citing UN reports, he claimed that state forces had killed over 1,400 people using military-grade weapons, including helicopters, with no apology or remorse from the fallen party.
“This is the legacy of Sheikh Hasina’s autocracy — a party politically buried in Dhaka and symbolically interred in Delhi,” he remarked.
He further criticised the fallen party for silencing democratic voices and perpetuating one-party rule since its early days. “From the establishment of Rakkhi Bahini to the recent bloodshed in 2024, the AL has destroyed its own political credibility,” he said.
“Enough is enough. The people won’t accept any delay,” concluded Salahuddin as he reiterated BNP’s demand for urgent electoral reforms to be completed immediately, paving the way for a national election before the end of the year.
The rally also featured speeches from Jubo Dal President Abdul Monayem Munna, Swechchhasebak Dal President SM Zilani, and Jubo Dal General Secretary Nurul Islam Noyon. It was chaired by Jatiya Chhatra Dal President Rakibul Islam and conducted by Swechchhasebak Dal General Secretary Rakib Ahsan and Chhatra Dal General Secretary Nasir Uddin.