Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, have reiterated their call for the interim government led by Dr. Mohammad Yunus to provide a definitive election roadmap.

The BNP emphasized the necessity of a specific timetable for upcoming general elections, while Jamaat-e-Islami underscored the importance of fostering an environment conducive to fair and transparent voting.

After a dialogue with government officials today, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir addressed the media outside the state guest house Jamuna, stressing the party's demand for clarity regarding the election timeline. "We have asked for a roadmap on when the elections will be held. We need clarity on this issue," Fakhrul stated.

Echoing this sentiment, Jamaat-e-Islami’s Ameer, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, highlighted the need for a neutral and healthy atmosphere to ensure the integrity of the electoral process.

"We hope the interim government will create a neutral and healthy environment to facilitate a proper election. We don’t want this to be prolonged. From the beginning, we have been saying that the government should work within a logical timeframe," Rahman remarked following a one-hour meeting with the interim government's chief advisor.

BNP's Focus on Election Reforms

During the meeting, Fakhrul revealed that the primary discussions centered on election-related issues, including reforms to the electoral system and the Election Commission.

The BNP raised concerns over the controversial election commissions that have overseen what they termed "fraudulent" elections since 2014. Fakhrul insisted that accountability measures be implemented for these commissions and called for legal action against involved commissioners.

Additionally, the BNP opposed a recent law placing the National Identification System under the Ministry of Home Affairs, demanding its repeal. Fakhrul also urged the removal of controversial figures from election reform committees to ensure transparency and impartiality.

Addressing issues within the judiciary, Fakhrul pointed out that many High Court appointments were based on political affiliations, calling for urgent legal reforms and the swift appointment of new public prosecutors and government pleaders to restore judicial impartiality.

The BNP's list of demands also included the repeal of false and politically motivated cases filed during the Awami League’s administration from 2007 to 2024.

Fakhrul expressed concerns about the current state of law enforcement, citing instances of government officials and ministers allegedly fleeing the country.

Jamaat-e-Islami Urges for Stability and Reforms

Meanwhile, Jamaat-e-Islami leaders emphasized the need for critical governance and law enforcement reforms.

Party Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman announced plans to present their proposals on October 9, focusing on essential areas requiring attention during the Saturday meeting with interim government leader Dr. Mohammad Yunus,

"We hope to present our proposals on October 9, targeting key reform areas," Rahman stated.

He also discussed the pressing law and order situation, highlighting the government's role in enhancing security and protecting the nation from conspiracies.

Rahman stressed the importance of cooperation between the government and citizens to maintain peace and stability.

Human Rights and Justice Concerns

Both Jamaat-e-Islami and the BNP raised alarm over ongoing human rights violations, including enforced disappearances and killings.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir urged the interim government to take immediate action against those involved in such incidents, pointing out that many remain unpunished.

Additionally, the BNP expressed dissatisfaction with former Chief Justice Khairul Haque's role in dismantling the caretaker government system, accusing him of undermining the electoral process.

The party called for legal action against him, labeling his actions as "treason."

Ongoing Dialogue

The interim government plans to continue discussions with political parties in the coming days as part of its ongoing dialogue.

With pressing demands for reforms, election transparency, and accountability, the political climate in Bangladesh remains tense as parties seek a clear roadmap for a fair electoral process.

Both the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami are hopeful that their proposals will be addressed promptly, as the nation looks to the interim government for decisive action to ensure a free and fair election that reflects the will of the people.

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