Thousands of activists and leaders of the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party gathered in Dhaka on Tuesday to demand a democratic transition through a new election. The supporters chanted slogans in front of the BNP headquarters, calling for a prompt election.
The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has introduced various reform plans across sectors such as the Election Commission and financial institutions. However, major political parties, including the BNP under former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, are pressing for a new election to be held soon.
Yunus assumed leadership after former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina left the country during a mass uprising, leading to a change in power. The military is playing a significant role in the administration, which is grappling with challenges like worker unrest in the garment industry, law and order issues, and economic uncertainties.
While Yunus has not specified a timeline for the next national election, he has indicated that the interim government will continue as long as the people support it. The BNP and other parties have shown willingness to allow time for reforms before holding elections.
Tarique Rahman, acting chairman of the BNP, expressed support for the government's reform agenda, emphasizing the importance of a free and fair election to empower the people politically. He stressed the need for reforms in key institutions like the Election Commission and security agencies to ensure effective governance.
In a separate development, a court in Dhaka granted permission for the interrogation of two senior journalists facing murder charges. The journalists, known for their association with Hasina, were arrested as they attempted to flee to India. The arrests of journalists have drawn criticism from international organizations like Reporters Without Borders and Human Rights Watch.
The government also authorized military officials to exercise magistrate powers outside metropolitan areas for the next two months to combat organized crime. This move aims to enhance security measures across the country.
