BNP standing committee member and former minister Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan criticized the interim government for failing to take decisive action against individuals accused of corrupting the election process under the previous administration.
He also said that removing such individuals from their positions should have been the government’s first priority to demonstrate a firm stance on electoral integrity.
Dr. Khan also dismissed the notion of prioritizing reforms over holding elections, calling it unrealistic. "Denying people's voting rights indefinitely in the name of reforms is unreasonable," he added.
He made these remarks during an exclusive special interview at his residence in Gulshan.
Question: What are your expectations from the current government?
Abdul Moyeen Khan: The interim government must immediately restore people's voting rights, freedom of speech, and other fundamental rights. This will pave the way for establishing a government that genuinely represents the people. We expect democracy to be reinstated without delay.
Question: Various quarters are demanding the banning of the Awami League. What is your take on this?
Moyeen Khan: The Awami League claims to be a pro-liberation force, but its leaders' contributions during the Liberation War remain questionable. From 1972 to 1975, the party imposed one-party rule through BAKSAL, effectively destroying democracy. We must now question whether the Awami League genuinely believes in democracy as a political party. Renowned publications like Time magazine have remarked that the Awami League transitioned into "Baksal 2.0" from 2009 to 2024. While the party did not openly proclaim this, it established a de facto one-party regime, stifling free speech and enforcing a singular narrative. Without freedom of expression, democracy cannot exist. The continuation of Awami League's politics and its participation in elections depend on the surrounding circumstances. However, even after 100 days, the party has shown no remorse for its mistakes.
Question: How critical is a roadmap for the elections?
Moyeen Khan: Determining the timeline and methodology for elections is the Election Commission's jurisdiction. This is why we have repeatedly urged the interim government to expedite electoral reforms. Reforms are a continuous process, as history shows, and cannot be completed in a single stretch. Therefore, the notion of completing reforms first and holding elections later is impractical. The government’s ongoing reform discussions seem endless, as today's reforms could lead to calls for more reforms tomorrow. Thus, the processes of reform and election must proceed concurrently.
Question: Which reforms does the BNP prioritise?
Moyeen Khan: Electoral reforms. Elections held during the Awami League's tenure do not meet the definition of fair elections. Therefore, reforms essential for free and impartial elections must be prioritised. The first step is to restructure the Election Commission, which the interim government has already undertaken. The second critical aspect is addressing the administrative and law enforcement systems, as these are integral to managing elections under the Westminster model, where elections for all 300 constituencies take place in a single day. Effective electoral management requires millions of personnel, which the commission cannot sustain on its own. Therefore, reforms in the administration and law enforcement sectors are indispensable.
Question: What is your position on constitutional amendments?
Moyeen Khan: The constitution can be amended or rewritten multiple times. However, the most critical factor is the mindset of those in power. Without a democratic mindset among leaders and the people, amendments or reforms will not suffice. While democratic rights are enshrined in the constitution, the Awami League, through its authoritarian rule from 1972–75 and 2009–24, curtailed these rights. In such circumstances, constitutional changes alone cannot bring meaningful progress.
Question: How do you view the recent student-led movements, and what has been BNP's contribution?
Moyeen Khan: The success of the student-led movements is widely recognised and commendable. The students have bravely fought to reclaim freedom for the second time. The BNP and 44 like-minded political parties have been combating the fascist regime for years, culminating in the victory on 5 August. However, this is not the end. BNP's sustained protests and contributions to the July-August uprising cannot be ignored. While one person may score a goal in football, the efforts of the other 10 players are equally important.
Question: Allegations of illegal land grabbing by BNP activists have surfaced post-5 August. Your thoughts?
Moyeen Khan: There are three dimensions to this. First, some discrepancies have occurred, and BNP has acknowledged them by taking action against over 1,000 activists, including expulsions and show-cause notices. Second, Awami League grassroots members, unable to flee, are blending with BNP ranks and committing crimes to tarnish BNP's reputation. Third, some incidents are immediate reactions to historical grievances. These events, while not unexpected, were exaggerated by certain media outlets.
Question: What is BNP's strategy regarding its alliance with like-minded parties?
Moyeen Khan: Just as we have fought against Sheikh Hasina's fascist regime together in the past, we aim to continue working with pro-democracy parties to restore democracy in the future.
Question: BNP is advocating for a national government post-election. How will this work?
Moyeen Khan: A democratic system requires a strong opposition to ensure accountability and prevent one-party rule. We are collaborating with parties that share the vision of restoring democracy in Bangladesh. Differences in strategy and implementation may arise, but the collective goal remains the same — re-establishing democracy.
Question: What is your view on student-led political parties?
Moyeen Khan: They have the right to engage in politics. If their intentions are genuine, they should be welcomed. However, their true test lies with the people of Bangladesh, not with BNP.
Question: When will BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman return to Bangladesh?
Moyeen Khan: Tarique Rahman will return at the right time. That, I assure you.
Source: Bangladesh Pratidin
BDST: 1300 HRS, NOV 30, 2024
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