Don't try to stay in power for 10-20 years: Major Hafiz to interim govt
Hafiz said the Awami League's 16-year rule was a period marked by “severe misrule”, claiming the leaders were busy glorifying Sheikh Mujib and his family, looting money, and laundering it abroad
BNP Standing Committee member Major (retd) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed has asked the Mohammed Yunus-led interim government to refrain from trying to stay in power for 10-20 years.
"We support the Yunus-led government and will continue to do so in the future. But do not try to stay in power for life or 10-20 years," he said at a discussion titled "Aspirations of 7 November and the Context of Today's Politics" at Dhaka Reporters Unity today (11 November).
He also alleged that pro-Awami League individuals have infiltrated advisory roles within the government, which he viewed as a potential obstacle to impartial governance.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
"Those who were part of the Awami League's inner circle for the past 16 years, enjoying privileges, must be removed - not just by the interim government, but by political parties as well," he added.
The BNP leader also criticised the leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, alleging that they do not believe in building a democratic society.
"They may think that a few protests will fix the country; perhaps that's what their mentors teach them," he said.
Hafiz said the Awami League's 16-year rule was a period marked by "severe misrule", claiming the leaders were busy glorifying Sheikh Mujib and his family, looting money, and laundering it abroad.
He added that the interim government's primary duty is to conduct fair elections and transfer power to an elected government. However, he noted that people in power often try to stay longer than intended.
He urged for immediate Election Commission reform, suggesting that only a neutral commission can conduct fair elections, where elected representatives can begin meaningful reforms.
The BNP leader criticised recent remarks by Sarjis Alam, coordinator of the anti-discrimination movement, on the significance of elections.
Hafiz questioned, "Is voting so simple? It's the symbol of democracy. Wasn't the Liberation War in 1971 fought to establish rights to freedom of speech and voting?"
He added, "Elections are essential, and dismissing this is rejecting democratic values."
