BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed today (Aug 16) said those expressing concerns or making statements casting doubt on the upcoming elections are not part of the country’s democratic forces.

“Those spreading fear about the election through statements against democracy are not forces of democracy. They are not advocates for the people. For unknown reasons, they may be trying to manipulate the narrative to delay, disrupt, or prevent the polls,” he said.

Salahuddin made the remarks at a Milad and Dua Mahfil marking the 81st birthday of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, organised by Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Juba Dal at the party’s Nayapaltan office.

He also said: “The people are determined to uphold democracy and their right to vote. They will resist anyone attempting to obstruct this democratic journey with misleading arguments.”

He urged all democratic political parties to unite for a free and fair election.

Wishing Khaleda Zia good health and a long life, Salahuddin lauded her leadership, calling her an “indomitable force in the country’s history” who restored democracy by overthrowing autocracy and introduced parliamentary democracy.

“In 1996, responding to public demand, she established the provision for a non-partisan caretaker government in the Constitution,” he said, adding that Khaleda continues to guide BNP’s democratic movement.

“As per her guidance, we have engaged in discussions with the government and other democratic parties to ensure a democratic transition,” he added.

Salahuddin said the party will preserve national unity and transform it into a powerful force against fascism.

MN/