Violence cannot halt elections: Khosru

“There is no reason to believe that anyone will be able to disrupt the upcoming election through acts of violence or sabotage. The people of Bangladesh are very aware and alert. They are eagerly waiting for the election,” he said.

Talking to reporters after European Union (EU) Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller’s meeting with BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam at the party Chairperson’s Gulshan office, Khosru also said election activities are now in full swing across all 300 constituencies of the country with great enthusiasm and participation.

“Almost all political parties are now active on the ground, taking part in election-related activities. Campaigns and preparations are progressing smoothly in every area,” he said.

Asked for his comment on recent incidents of political unrest and violence, Khosru, a BNP Standing Committee member, said such issues concern everyone. “Law and order is always a matter of concern. We also have our concerns.”

He said they hope the government will ensure that its law enforcement agencies remain strong, vigilant, and effective in addressing any such incidents.

Responding to questions about the Awami League’s alleged violent activities and lockdown programme, the BNP leader said, “The Awami League is neither in the race nor active in the country. Their leader is not even present. So, there is nothing to discuss.”

He also said they believe anyone, not just the Awami League, can potentially carry out such violent acts. “It is the responsibility of the law enforcement agencies to perform their duties properly to protect the country from such activities.”

Khosru said those who are not contesting in the election or are absent from the country, and whose activities have been suspended, may attempt violent acts, and other quarters could also be involved.

“But it is the government’s responsibility to deal with them. They have intelligence agencies and law enforcement agencies, and we hope the government will be more active in handling these matters effectively. Through this, we will be able to move forward towards the election.”

Speaking about BNP’s nomination list, Khosru said, “After announcing candidates for 237 seats, the list has been widely accepted. Reports from various quarters indicate that the nominations are well received.”

Regarding Jamaat’s Amir’s comment that no election will be held next year without the legal recognition of the July Charter, he said, “We have already discussed and reached an agreement. The charter was signed. Beyond that, we are not aware of any remaining issues. After so many discussions and the signing of the charter, it is not clear what else could still be pending.”