Zafrullah slams Khaleda for democracy's absence in BNP

Pro-BNP intellectual and Gonoshasthaya Kendra founder Zafrullah Chowdhury in an open letter lambasted BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia “for absence of democracy inside the party” and gave some suggestions.

In the letter sent to the media yesterday, he warned she had only nine months to strengthen movements to establish “accountable democracy” in the country before verdicts might be delivered in corruption cases against her.

He also criticised having war criminals' sons in BNP's executive committee while depriving freedom fighters in standing committee posts. If she works hard, people's verdict might go in her favour, he observed.

He appreciated cancellation of Khaleda's birthday celebrations on August 15 “considering the country's overall situation”.

He criticised standing committee members and other senior leaders for putting the responsibility of forming the committee on her shoulder, ultimately representing her as a “stubborn autocrat”. It was their responsibility to tell Khaleda to hold discussions with the standing committee before announcing the names, Zafrullah wrote.

He also urged Khaleda to talk with others and decide on continuing ties with Jamaat-e Islami.

He suggested reforming BNP's charter to ensure democracy, including prominent figures in her advisory body and holding rallies with political parties, including that of Dr Kamal Hossain's.

On the Rampal power plant project, he suggested joining movements led by Prof Anu Muhammad for its cancellation.