BNP Seeks Swift Return to Democracy Through Fair Polls

BNP senior leader Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan on Saturday said the party is committed to restoring democracy in Bangladesh through a credible and inclusive election, which he termed essential for the nation’s progress.

“We want democracy to return as soon as possible, and the only way to achieve that is through a fair and transparent election,” he told reporters after paying tribute at the grave of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman.

Dr Moyeen, a member of the BNP Standing Committee, made the remarks while joining leaders and activists of Jatiyatabadi Baul Dal to mark the 18th founding anniversary of the organisation.

He said Bangladesh was created to uphold democratic values, which could not thrive under Pakistan’s rule. “The people of East Pakistan believed in democracy and launched a movement that eventually led to the country’s independence.”

Criticising the ruling party, he alleged that democracy was dismantled after independence through the introduction of one-party rule under Baksal, and later by maintaining an “unwritten Baksal system.”

He claimed the government was ultimately forced to leave office on 5 August 2024 in the face of public outrage.

“BNP believes in both the country’s independence and democracy. Our founder, Ziaur Rahman, sacrificed his life for democratic ideals,” Dr Moyeen said.

He stressed that BNP does not engage in politics of revenge, but instead stands for people’s rights and freedoms. “One-party rulers may exert power, but they cannot win the people’s hearts.”

He also expressed concern over civil liberties, stating that press freedom has been suppressed over the past 15 years. “We want to ensure freedom of speech and a free press for everyone.”