Senior Joint Secretary General of BNP, Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, has expressed concerns over the potential risks to the upcoming parliamentary elections if illegal arms are not confiscated across the country.
Speaking at a party event outside BNP’s central office in Nayapaltan on Sunday, Rizvi warned that the situation could lead to “disaster” if these arms are not recovered before the election.
He stated, “The fascist allies today possess illegal arms and money ahead of the election… If the interim government fails to recover these arms, the upcoming election will be dangerous. Immediate action is needed to seize illegal weapons.”
Rizvi further highlighted that factions of fascists within the current administration are strategically hiding in various departments, waiting for an opportunity to undermine the interim government and democratic forces.
“Political analysts across the country are saying that fascist elements within the administration, including in the Secretariat, are quietly sitting and working to create confusion,” he added. Rizvi stressed the importance of vigilance to prevent such a scenario.
The remarks were made during a programme organised by the Zia Parishad to mark BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia’s 81st birthday. As part of the event, raincoats were distributed to rickshaw and van drivers.
Regarding the proposed referendum on the July Charter, Rizvi questioned why a referendum was necessary. “If any law or constitutional amendments are required, that should be done by an elected parliament,” he said. “One political party is suggesting a referendum before any changes. Why? If changes are necessary, the parliament will make them, as per the constitution.”
Rizvi also referred to past actions by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, including the alleged humiliation of the Chief Justice, and criticised such practices, urging that only a free and fair election would ensure a democratic government. “Only after ensuring democracy can, we make necessary amendments to the constitution if required,” he concluded.
The event also featured speeches from BNP’s Joint Secretary General Abdus Salam Azad, Volunteer Affairs Secretary Mir Sarafat Ali, Zia Parishad’s General Secretary Emtaj Hossain, and others, led by Vice Chairman of Zia Parishad, Professor Lutfur Rahman, and Professor Abul Kalam Azad.