GM Quader alleges plot on to exclude 30 out of 48 parties from elections
He said elections will not be deemed acceptable without the inclusion of the country's major political parties
Plans are underway to exclude 30 of the 48 political parties from participating in the upcoming elections, Jatiyo Party Chairman GM Quader said today (1 January).
"We see this as fascism; a new form of fascism is resurging," he said while speaking at a discussion organised to observe the founding anniversary of the party in front of its Segunbagicha central office in the capital.
He added, "Elections will not be deemed acceptable without the inclusion of the country's major political parties, including Jatiyo Party."
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The Jatiyo Party chief said reforms will not be sustainable unless the opinions of all parties are considered.
The party had planned to hold a meeting at the IDEB Auditorium in the capital. Since they did not receive permission from the authorities, they conducted a brief programme in front of their central office.
Speaking at the event, GM Quader said, "We are a registered political party, and holding a peaceful programme is our right, but we are being denied this. The gathering was not permitted due to security concerns. Some individuals have issued threats, but it is the state's responsibility to ensure security, which is not being provided."
He went on to say, "Despite claims of a discrimination-free country, politics is divided under the influence of fascist powers. We are witnessing torture without trial, harassment, and attacks on homes and businesses.
"The so-called murder trial is nothing more than a farce."
