Dhaka: BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed has warned that any postponement of the upcoming national parliamentary election could pave the way for the resurgence of fascism. "If the election is delayed, fascism will be reborn. Then the fallen fascism will get an opportunity, which is in no way desirable," he stated during a discussion event.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the event was organized by the National Democratic Party (NDP) to commemorate its 37th founding anniversary and was held at the Engineers Institution auditorium. Salahuddin emphasized the importance of adhering to legal and constitutional processes when considering any amendments to the Constitution. "None of us have the right to change the country's Constitution without legal and constitutional process," he asserted, warning against setting a precedent that could lead to repeated demands for constitutional changes.
Salahuddin highlighted the significance of the public's voice, referencing a mass uprising in July as a demonstration of the people's will. He mentioned that the interim government was established in accordance with Article 106 of the Constitution, following the Supreme Court's opinion. This process, he noted, ensures legitimacy in implementing the public's desires.
Addressing the Proportional Representation (PR) system, Salahuddin questioned its relevance, suggesting that a significant portion of the population does not comprehend it. He cautioned against confusing the nation with discussions about the PR system and urged a return to the correct path to safeguard the interests of the people of Bangladesh.
On the topic of holding the next election, Salahuddin reiterated the importance of implementing the agreements reached through the National Consensus Commission as part of the July Charter. He stressed that the constitutional aspects of the Charter should be addressed by the next parliament through proper constitutional amendments.
The event was presided over by NDP Chairman Abdullah Al Harun and featured speeches from other political figures, including Rashed Khan, General Secretary of the Gono Adhikar Parishad, Khandkar Lutfur Rahman, President of Jatiya Ganatantrik Party, and Syed Nurul Islam, General Secretary of Bangladesh Samyabadi Dal.