BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed underscored the importance of building and preserving unwavering unity among all anti-fascist individuals, no matter the cost. 

He said that "Bangladesh First" should serve as the guiding principle, aiming to create a strong, democratic, and equitable nation governed by the rule of law. According to him, a united and self-respecting nation cannot be defeated.

Ahmed expressed these views during an exclusive interview at the BNP Chairperson's office in Gulshan. Below is the interview in a question-and-answer format:

Question: What is your message to the people and the interim government in the current political context?

Salahuddin: My heartfelt appeal to the people is to preserve the unity against fascism that emerged after 5 August, reflecting the strong desire among the masses to build a non-discriminatory Bangladesh under the rule of law. As the nation moves toward its democratic future, we must walk in step with the people. Maximum unity, with the motto "Bangladesh First," is crucial. Our country should be above all else.

Question: The interim government has been in power for about five months. How do you see the situation?

Salahuddin: Five months may not be a long time, but it’s not insignificant for evaluating an interim government’s actions. The government must align its efforts with the revolutionary aspirations of the people that emerged after the uprising. To achieve this, they must act more decisively, especially in initiating reforms. Priority should be given to electoral reforms, ensuring a fair, inclusive democratic election. A clear roadmap should be presented to the nation.

Question: People expected peace after liberation from a fascist government through mass movements. To what extent has this expectation been fulfilled?

Salahuddin: People's expectations are naturally high. The intense desire for democratic rights and voting rights won’t be fulfilled overnight. However, people want the process to start, enabling them to speak freely and assemble without fear. Progress has been slow but has started, and we hope people's aspirations will be realized in due time.

Question: Among the government advisors, only a few were revolutionary figures. What revolutionary role do you see in this government?

Salahuddin: This is not a social revolution but rather a struggle for reclaiming democratic rights. There was unity among students and the masses against fascism, aiming to restore their democratic rights. Therefore, expecting revolutionary ideas and leadership to emerge overnight is unrealistic.

Question: The country’s economic condition is deteriorating, with rising prices. What are the reasons?

Salahuddin: The main reason is the political uncertainty and instability, discouraging local and foreign investments. A stable, elected government is essential for normalizing economic activities and ensuring market stability, a view shared globally.

Question: How can the instability in public administration be addressed?

Salahuddin: The administration supported the fascist regime for 15-16 years. Expecting an overnight overhaul is unrealistic. However, efforts are ongoing, albeit slowly.

Question: Khaleda Zia and acting chairman Tarique Rahman are still entangled in fabricated cases, as are BNP leaders and activists nationwide. How can these cases be resolved?

Salahuddin: We have repeatedly urged the interim government to resolve or withdraw these false cases. The technical process can be worked out with legal experts.

Question: Tarique Rahman was recently acquitted in the August 21 grenade attack case. Will there be legal action against those who fabricated this case?

Salahuddin: Without reviewing the case files, I can’t comment. However, the case was politically motivated, as evident from the involvement of certain individuals like Kahhar Akand, who was later awarded an Awami League nomination.

Question: There are rumors about another “Minus Two Formula” targeting Khaleda Zia and Tarique Rahman. What’s your take?

Salahuddin: Attempts at such formulas, whether “Minus One” or “Minus Two,” have been made before. Ultimately, it’s up to the people of Bangladesh to decide who to exclude or include.

Question: What are BNP’s electoral preparations, and how is the promotion of the 31-point agenda progressing?

Salahuddin: As the largest democratic political party, BNP always maintains electoral readiness, which is being updated and advanced.

Question: The chief advisor has hinted at a timeline for national elections but hasn’t provided specifics. What’s your stance?
Salahuddin: We have requested a clear roadmap with dates and timelines for reforms related to elections and other critical issues.

Question: A new political party under the National Citizens' Committee is expected to form soon. How do you view this?

Salahuddin: If it’s a genuine people's party, we welcome it. However, we oppose any government-backed party disguised as a grassroots movement.

Question: Acting chairman Tarique Rahman has proposed forming a national government post-election. How feasible is this?

Salahuddin: Our 31-point proposal includes forming a national government with likeminded parties involved in the anti-fascist movement. This will be based on consensus.

Question: What level of success do you expect for BNP in the upcoming elections?

Salahuddin: We aim to unify democracy-loving citizens and establish a prosperous Bangladesh governed by the rule of law. Our political, organizational, and electoral efforts are aligned with this vision.

Source: Bangladesh Pratidin

BDST: 1227 HRS, DEC 28, 2024