BNP, like-minded parties for consensus among parties to finalise election roadmap

Leaders of BNP and its like-minded parties yesterday stressed the urgent need for consensus among all parties to finalise an election roadmap for the upcoming national polls.

At a discussion organised by the Nagorik Oikya in a city hotel, they warned that without unity, the country could face severe challenges, which would have a negative impact on the people.

"The government has said elections will be held within this timeframe [by December] if everyone agrees. What if everyone does not agree? This is why political consensus is essential," said Nagorik Oikya President Mahmudur Rahman Manna while speaking at the discussion.

He asked whether the polls would be held by December as suggested by the government.

Manna further said that the government plans to implement reforms based on consensus.

"We've already submitted our proposals. Now, it's time to identify common ground and move forward with reforms," he said, adding that further discussions would be held on February 15.

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed said, "The Election Commission is for conducting the polls, while the government's role is to facilitate it."

He expressed hope that the government is working towards holding the polls by December, as assured in recent meetings.

Echoing him, another BNP leader Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku stressed the importance of holding the polls promptly.

"There's no alternative to conducting the polls quickly. Delays will only deepen the crisis," he said.

Shahid Uddin Mahmud Swapan, general secretary of Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal, said, "Without involving the people, it cannot be possible to achieve a consensus," adding that reforms to the state structure are crucial as well.

Gonoforum President Subrata Chowdhury said political parties remain divided on key issues, including national polls, constitutional amendments, and reform proposals.

"Some parties are advocating for elections under the constituent assembly, while others question the government's neutrality. Such contradictions hinder progress," he said.

Zonayed Saki, chief coordinator of Ganosamhati Andolon, criticised the current electoral system, accusing the Awami League of undermining its integrity.

"Free and fair elections are impossible under this fascist system. Structural changes are necessary to ensure transparency," he said.

Saiful Haque, general secretary of Biplobi Workers Party, said the government's impartiality is already under scrutiny.

"If the government shows bias towards any party, its neutrality will be questioned, casting doubt on its ability to oversee fair elections."

Bazlur Rashid Firoz, general secretary of Bangladesh Samajtantrik Dal, suggested publishing a white paper on the government's performance over the past six months.

"A clear announcement on minimal reforms and the election date is essential to reduce instability."

Communist Party of Bangladesh General Secretary Ruhin Hossain Prince urged the government to prioritise election-related reforms.

"The government must set a specific date for the polls and focus on reforms to avoid an economic and political crisis," he said, calling for unity among all parties.