BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Sunday urged the interim government to guarantee a free and fair election, stressing that constitutional amendments should only be undertaken by an elected government acting in the national interest.
Speaking to reporters after distributing raincoats to rickshaw and van-pullers in front of BNP’s Nayapaltan central office, Rizvi stated, “Should any amendment to the constitution be necessary for the country’s welfare, it must be carried out by a government elected by the people.”
The BNP leader emphasised the importance of preserving the gains made on August 5 and reminded the public of the sixteen years of hardship endured under what he termed an authoritarian regime. He warned against the re-emergence of fascism and called for unity to prevent its return.
Reflecting on recent history, Rizvi alleged, “There was no rule of law, no justice. State institutions – including the judiciary and law enforcement – were weaponised to serve Sheikh Hasina’s personal vendetta.”
He further claimed, “A system was established where only Sheikh Hasina, her children, and relatives had the right to speak. It was an era of violence and revenge. To avoid repeating that dark chapter, a basic political consensus is essential.”
The BNP leader cautioned that without such an understanding, “fascism may return in an even more brutal form.” He accused Sheikh Hasina of abandoning her earlier advocacy for the caretaker government system once she assumed power, describing her as “a leader devoid of commitment, who treats politics as a means of deception and self-interest.”
Rizvi also called on the interim government to maintain strict neutrality and fulfil public expectations.
“It is not a matter of doubt regarding their sincerity,” he remarked. “Although inflation has decreased, prices of essential goods remain high. Factories are closing one after another, and unemployment is rising. Without job creation, we risk signs of famine. While a handful of advisers may be able to afford duck meat, the common people cannot. This situation cannot be tolerated.”
Highlighting the plight of garment workers, he noted that nearly 100,000 have lost their jobs and criticised factory owners whom he accused of supporting authoritarianism. “Factories must remain operational; no one should go hungry. You cannot build politics on empty stomachs,” he asserted.
He proposed that the government consider auctioning non-operational mills if necessary.
On the subject of constitutional reform, Rizvi reiterated that any changes – including those related to the July proclamation – must be decided by a future elected parliament. He questioned the demand for a prior referendum, stating, “Core constitutional principles may be unalterable, but the framework itself permits amendments – and only an elected parliament holds that authority.”
Any amendment required for strengthening democracy, he concluded, must be enacted by the people’s representatives.