BNP, other parties ask whether the government supports the students’ demands

Senior leaders of the BNP and some other parties are questioning the caretaker government’s stance on recent demands, including the resignation of President Mohammed Shahabuddin and a ban on the Awami League, put forward by the Students’ Movement Against Discrimination as two of its representatives are also in the government.

Speaking at a discussion organized by the Biplobi Workers’ Party at Dhaka Reporters Unity today (October 28), they warned that attempts to impose demands could undo the gains made through the mass uprising.

BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury said, “Ten reform commissions have been formed. Their report will be submitted within 90 days. However, in the meantime, new demands have been made.

“It is not known whether the reform commissions or the caretaker government have any support or commitment to implementing the demands. These issues need to be clarified. These issues become contradictory.”

Stating that reform is an ongoing process, Khosru said: “The issues that can be unanimously agreed on can be implemented. On issues on which we cannot unanimously agree, we must turn to the people. There is a consensus for free, fair and transparent and acceptable elections through electoral reform. People want to vote. There is no difference of opinion.”

Saiful Haque, secretary general of the Biplobi Workers’ Party, said: “After receiving reports from the reform commission, decisions on action should be taken based on consensus through discussions with political parties. However, the overall reform program is currently lagging behind as new issues have been raised from various quarters, including the Student Movement Against Discrimination.”

Criticizing the recent Bangabhaban siege program requiring the president’s resignation, Nagorik Oikya Mahmudur Rahman Manna said: “It did not send a good signal. Being part of the government, they make demands on the government.”

Ganosamhati Andolon Chief Coordinator Junaid Saki mentioned the need for a national political council. “All decisions should be made unanimously. There is no alternative,” he said.

AB party secretary Mojibur Rahman said, “The unity among the people that was seen three months ago is now declining. The Awami League has been banned culturally and politically, which is a big achievement.”