Why December, when polls can be in Aug-Oct?

BNP Standing Committee Member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury yesterday said the national election could feasibly be held between August and October, but the government was not moving in that direction.

"There is no reason to wait until December. The election can be held in August, September, or October. The delay is only fuelling uncertainty and anxiety," he told reporters at a city hotel.

"They are not moving towards the election. They are heading in a different direction," he said, referring to the government.

There is consensus on certain reform proposals, he said. "If there is agreement, why the delay? Reforms can be announced within hours."

The BNP leader criticised the government for prioritising other initiatives.

"Why are they wasting time? They are making decisions like handing over the Chattogram port. Who gave them the mandate?

"We want elections to be held by December. But even that delay is unnecessary. Polls can be held much earlier."

On the question of appointment of BNP leader Ishraque Hossain as mayor of Dhaka South City Corporation, he said, "If there is a court order, why is it not being implemented? Is this not a failure of the rule of law?"

Unelected individuals were occupying key roles without any connection to the people.

"Those involved in the politics of the people of Bangladesh aren't given responsibilities. Different types of people are constantly being given important roles. Who gave them that authority?"

Khosru emphasised that political reforms should not be shaped by individual or partisan agendas.

"Reforms must be achieved through a democratic process that reflects the will of the people. The people of Bangladesh want to reclaim their ownership and elect their government."