Fakhrul wants govt to focus on reforms for credible election

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has suggested that the interim government should concentrate exclusively on reforms in the electoral process, administration and judiciary to ensure a credible national election within a logical timeframe.

In an interview with UNB, he refrained from specifying 'a reasonable timeframe' for the current government's tenure.

He, however, acknowledged that the BNP's position almost aligns with the recent comments made by the chief adviser and the army chief on the issue.

Fakhrul also cautioned that delaying the election could exacerbate existing problems, enabling certain vested quarters and accomplices of the deposed regime to engage in foul play.

This is the second report in a three-part series based on a recent interview with Mirza Fakhrul who played a pivotal role in organising the leaders and activists of the BNP during a challenging period marked by widespread arrests, the imprisonment of party Chairperson Khaleda Zia, and the absence of acting Chairman Tarique Rahman from the country during the Awami League's 16-year rule.

The BNP leader covered a variety of topics, offering his perspectives on the views expressed by the Army Chief and the Interim Government Chief regarding the timing of the next national election.

In a recent interview with Reuters, Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zaman vowed to the country's interim government "come what may" to help it complete key reforms after the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina so that elections could be held within the next 18 months.

Besides, during a meeting with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva at the UN headquarters in New York last week, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus said the date for a general election will be announced once a consensus on reforms is reached with political parties and the voter list is prepared.

Regarding the Army Chief's comment about holding a national election within 18 months, Fakhrul stated that General Waker expressed his personal view, which seemingly reflects his desire for elections to occur within a reasonable timeframe.

"The sooner the election is held, the better for the country. But, the challenge lies in the fact that the previous government has left a mess everywhere. Without addressing these issues, it will be difficult to arrange a fair and credible election," he said.

"We believe there is not much difference between our position on the timing of the polls and that of Dr Yunus and the Army Chief. We mentioned a logical timeframe, which you might consider a vague term, but we use it for specific reasons. Certainly, time should be allowed to clear the mess and hold an acceptable election, but it should never exceed a reasonable period," Fakhrul viewed.

He also thinks that holding the election as soon as possible will help address many problems and challenges. "The longer the election is delayed, the more the problems will escalate. Those who oppose the revolution and change, as well as those who favor fascism, will look to exploit any unnecessary delays in holding the polls."

When asked whether 18 months is a reasonable timeframe, the BNP leader declined to comment. "I don't want to specify any particular timeframe. Let's see... if it's held sooner than 18 months, that would be better."

Fakhrul said the Awami League regime has transformed Bangladesh into a deep state, making every aspect toxic and polluted. "It's now difficult to identify the right people to fix these institutions."

The BNP leader said the interim government has initiated steps for state reforms, which are definitely necessary. "These reforms must be implemented. We also presented a 31-point proposal for these reforms two years ago."

Fakhrul said the government has announced the formation of six commissions, each led by qualified individuals, to implement reforms in key sectors. "However, it's crucial to understand the people's needs and views. Discussions with political parties are essential to gather their views and proposals. We have our own suggestions, and so do others."

He emphasised that political consensus on state reforms is essential, as these changes will need to be incorporated into the constitution through Parliament following the national election.

"So, the government should concentrate on three key areas for reforms—the electoral process, administration and judiciary. By implementing changes in these areas, we can help ensure a credible election in a conducive atmosphere with a level playing field," the BNP leader said.

Once Parliament is formed through an election, he said the remaining reform proposals can be presented in the House by the ruling party. "If we are in the treasury bench, we will introduce those proposals. The BNP has the advantage of already announcing plans to form a national government in cooperation with parties that have contributed to the movement against the Awami League regime. This ensures that all parties' opinions will be represented in Parliament, enabling us to move forward together.

The BNP leader said it is possible to build the nation in a coordinated manner through a national government, which has proven effective in many countries.

In response to a question about the format of the national government, Fakhrul said that it can be formed in two ways: "One option is to include representatives from the parties that participate in the polls, and the other is to involve those parties that joined the street movement against the fascist regime."

He, however, said the first option would not be feasible if the Awami League participates in the polls. "It is now impossible to form a government with the Awami League, as the people consider it an anti-state force that has engaged in treason and mass killings. Therefore, there can be no question of forming a government with the Awami League."

When asked whether Jamaat-e-Islami will be included in the national government, Fakhrul responded that the BNP and other political parties involved in the movement will consider it if Jamaat expresses such interest. 'I don't want to comment on the matter right now. We'll discuss it when the time comes."