Staff Correspondent, Dhaka
BNP Standing Committee Member Mirza Abbas has called on authorities to specify a timeline for the next election, emphasising the party’s readiness to wait.
He made these remarks on Monday after paying respects at the grave of BNP founder and former president Ziaur Rahman on the occasion of Victory Day.
Abbas said: "Whenever we talk about elections, it seems to make some people uncomfortable. Our leader Tarique Rahman has clearly said that to let us know how long we must wait. We are willing to wait. Reforms can take place; we are open to waiting. But this situation cannot continue indefinitely.”
He criticized the country’s current economic state, highlighting the rising cost of living and financial struggles faced by ordinary people.
“People are looking for a way to survive. They may be able to voice their concerns, but the struggles remain. Until an elected government takes office, these issues will persist. We urge the government to announce a roadmap for the elections,” he added.
Reacting to the Chief Adviser’s statement on holding elections at an “appropriate time” with the consent of stakeholders, Abbas acknowledged the remarks as reasonable but insisted there should be no deviation from this promise.
Addressing comments made by Environmental Adviser Rezwan Hassan, Abbas said:"You may not be involved in politics, but when speaking about political figures, show respect. Politicians are not made overnight."
"Try to understand and acknowledge their perspectives. We are not power-hungry, nor will we ever make such claims. All we demand is the people’s right to vote and the restoration of democracy," he further added.
