BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has stated that the current interim government, led by Prof Muhammad Yunus, is unable to maintain neutrality on several issues.

“I urge the interim government to uphold neutrality and work towards rescuing the nation from the crises it is currently facing,” he said while addressing a discussion organised by Shaheed Asad Parishad at the National Press Club in the capital on Thursday. The event marked the 56th martyrdom anniversary of student leader Asaduzzaman Asad.

“Yesterday (Wednesday), during an interview, a journalist asked me if the interim government cannot remain impartial, will a neutral government be needed during the election? There is a valid reason for raising this concern,” he added.

Mirza Fakhrul reiterated the BNP’s call for holding the general election promptly, emphasising that the country’s people have been denied the opportunity to elect their representatives for 15 years. “Through the elections, people must get the chance to choose their representatives,” he said.

The BNP secretary general noted that while every political party has its distinct agenda, there is unanimity on one point: the need for elections.

“The election is not merely about bringing a party to power; it is about creating a pathway, opening the door to a democratic system,” he stated. He pointed out that various quarters have raised questions about holding elections only after completing all necessary reforms.

“So, should we wait for four to five years? Should people wait until all reforms are completed? They will continue to be deprived of their right to vote,” he said.

Mirza Fakhrul stressed that current reforms should be centred on elections and that the government must expedite these reforms to hold elections promptly.

“The government that assumes power through the polls must take full responsibility for implementing the reform commitments to meet public expectations,” he added.

He called for unity on minimum common issues to achieve a truly democratic state. “Along with those who protested simultaneously against the fascist regime, we have proposed a 31-point programme. If any changes or enhancements are necessary, we must move forward accordingly,” he said.