Dhaka, October 14 — BNP’s Senior Joint Secretary General Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has raised questions over the demand for a referendum in November by Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and some other parties, asking whether it is part of some other ‘master plan.’
Speaking at a discussion held at the National Press Club on Monday to mark the anniversary of the Nationalist Ulama Party, Rizvi said, “When everyone had reached consensus on the July national charter, why is there confusion now by demanding a separate referendum in November? This is raising doubts among the people.”
He added, “Holding the parliamentary election and the referendum on the same day is easier and saves time. On the other hand, there is not enough time to properly prepare for a referendum in November, including raising awareness among the public.”
Rizvi also alleged, “Some political parties, especially Jamaat-e-Islami, do not actually want elections and have no commitment to democracy.”
Calling for unity and an end to spreading confusion, he urged, “The agreed-upon solution should be respected.”
Rizvi’s remarks have intensified the ongoing debate over the upcoming election plans and the referendum.
