BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has reiterated the party’s unambiguous position that national elections must precede local government polls, stating that only an elected national government can ensure credible local elections.
“National elections must be held first,” Rizvi declared at a Wednesday event at BNP’s central office in Nayapaltan. “A locally elected government operating under a nationally elected administration would command public trust. Citizens have been deprived of voting rights for 17-18 years—their democratic participation must begin with national polls. Our stance is clear.”
The event, titled “Medical Assistance for July Uprising Victims,” was organised by “Amra BNP Paribar” (We Are BNP Family). Acting chairperson Tarique Rahman, via the organisation, provided medical aid to four injured individuals.
Rizvi, the group’s chief adviser, urged the caretaker government to transcend partisan interests and intensify protections for life and property. “Since August 5, 177 people have been killed—regardless of perpetrators, the interim government must bring all criminals to justice indiscriminately,” he asserted.
Emphasising rule of law, he added: “The caretaker administration must set exemplary standards. An elected government will build on your legacy.”
Criticising the previous Awami League regime, Rizvi alleged: “The sacrifice of 3 million martyrs in 1971 wasn’t for state-sponsored enforced disappearances. Hasina’s government weaponised police against opposition voices. Officers refusing to participate in such crimes faced career obstacles—their professionalism deserves recognition now.”
Among attendees were Amra BNP Paribar advisers engineer Ashraf Uddin Bakul, Mokshedul Momin Mithun, and convener Atiqur Rahman Ruman.