BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has urged Jamaat-e-Islami to set aside demands like a referendum or proportional representation (PR) for now and focus on the upcoming national election. He stated that this election would be his last and called for moving forward without distractions.
“I have tried to establish democracy in this country. We are moving forward with a clear goal. We do not want politics of division or factionalism anymore. Together, we want to build a truly beautiful Bangladesh,” Fakhrul said during election rallies in various unions of Thakurgaon Sadar on Wednesday (October 15).
He emphasized the need to avoid politics of revenge and division and urged everyone to work towards building a “state of peace.” He appealed to drop demands such as “there must be a referendum or proportional representation, or else there will be no election.” According to him, the people want an election, and the concept of PR is not well understood. “First, let the election happen, then we can discuss PR in parliament and decide,” he added.
Addressing Jamaat-e-Islami specifically, Fakhrul urged them to stop marches and meetings demanding PR and to allow the election to take place. “Let the people of Bangladesh live in peace. Let the instability end. I appeal to you to make the right decision,” he said.
Speaking on political reform during the rallies, Fakhrul mentioned the upcoming signing of the reform charter on October 17. He explained reform in simple terms, comparing it to replacing a tin roof or doors of a house every few years. “Just like a house needs maintenance, politics also requires reforms. Our political leaders and students believe reform is necessary to fix the country,” he said.
Reflecting on his political journey, Fakhrul revealed he has been imprisoned 11 times, stating, “Sheikh Hasina was afraid of me, which is why she sent me to jail. Many of our comrades have sacrificed their lives for a democratic system. So let us all unite and work together.”
He also addressed groups protesting on the streets demanding rights, advising them to pause their demands for now. “Wait until the elected government takes office, then raise your demands,” he said. He warned that some groups are trying to disrupt the election under the guise of demands.
The meeting in Thakurgaon Sadar was also attended by district BNP General Secretary Paygam Ali, municipal BNP President Shariful Islam Sharif, Sadar Upazila BNP General Secretary Mahbubur Rahman Tuhin, and other leaders.
