BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has said that political reforms are an ongoing process and must not delay the next general election.

He said: “Reforms are not a bracketed issue. They will continue—but elections must take place as scheduled, and they must be held like real elections.” 

Tarique Rahman made the remarks during a virtual discussion on Sunday night titled ‘31-point outline for repairing the state structure and citizens’ ideas.

He criticised those advocating for elections only after reforms, saying that some of them are now announcing candidates. 

“I ask everyone: what are we witnessing from those who once said reforms first and elections later? They are now nominating candidates in different constituencies. The BNP has not done this,” he added.

The BNP leader also questioned the credibility of reform advocates who, he said, remained silent in front of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in the past. “Those speaking about reforms today are doing so from privileged positions—in air-conditioned rooms, in expensive offices, while enjoying government facilities like cars, salaries, bonuses, and allowances,” he said.

He recalled that the BNP proposed a 31-point reform plan at a time when Chairperson Khaleda Zia, Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, and thousands of party leaders and activists were imprisoned or facing legal harassment.

He also criticised other political parties for failing to act against members accused of wrongdoing. “Have we seen any party take action against their own wrongdoers?” he asked.

Emphasising the BNP’s commitment to changing the fate of the nation, Tarique Rahman told party activists: “This is not my personal goal. This is a collective effort. If every one of you comes forward, we can implement the 31-point agenda.”

BDST: 1531 HRS, APR 14, 2025
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