Barrister Andaleeve Rahman Partho, Chairman of the Bangladesh Jatiya Party (BJP), said that today's youth cannot be handled in the same manner as in the past. This generation is more informed and democratic, presenting challenges not only for the upcoming elections but for the broader political landscape. He shared these views in an interview.

Question: Recently, there has been a significant student and public uprising in the country, which some are calling a "second independence." How do you view this comparison?

Andaleeve Rahman Partho: Comparisons can be made, but the significance of independence is different. It was the birth of an entire nation. However, I do not undermine any achievement. During the Liberation War, 30 lakh people were martyred, and the participation of freedom fighters was distinct. But this time, too, many people have sacrificed their lives. This movement is a manifestation of the accumulated grievances of the people over the past 15–16 years. The government had become extremely arrogant. I believe this downfall came as a decree from Allah.

Question: How much was the contribution of political parties, including the BJP, to this movement?

Andaleeve Rahman Partho: I cannot quantify the contribution, but our student organization was actively involved. Six of our members lost their lives in this movement. I was also imprisoned for standing in support of it. Political parties have been engaged in movements from the beginning. But labeling this as a mere 15-day movement would be wrong. We laid down 180 runs out of 200, and they perhaps scored the final 20 runs. The student-public led this mature movement, resulting in its success.

Question: How do you view the reform initiatives by the interim government, and which areas are you prioritizing?

Andaleeve Rahman Partho: We view it positively. We emphasize constitutional reforms, and there are issues within the Election Commission that we are also observing.

Question: What is the current political and economic situation of the country?

Andaleeve Rahman Partho: The overall political situation is positive because this government came through a revolution, and we morally support it. Mistakes are inevitable, but we must remember that this is an interim government, not a political one. We all need to support them to achieve our goals. Economically, things are a bit stagnant because large investors prefer an elected government with greater accountability. However, a positive aspect is that we no longer hear about bank looting.

Question: BNP's acting chairman Tarique Rahman has said that the next national election is a big challenge for the BNP. Is it also a challenge for your party?

Andaleeve Rahman Partho: It’s a challenge for everyone. The way Awami League has damaged institutions—the parliamentary system, the electoral process—BNP, as a major nationalist force, must reinvent itself. There are 40–50 million young voters, and they can no longer be handled in the same way as before. The new generation is more democratic. Therefore, politics itself, not just elections, is our biggest challenge. If we fail to meet their expectations, they may discard us one day.

Question: What are your expectations from the new Election Commission?

Andaleeve Rahman Partho: Conducting a good election is not solely the Commission’s responsibility; various ministries are involved. We must positively support this Commission. After 15–16 years, people dream of voting again, and with collective support, the Commission can conduct a fair election.

Question: The government’s legal advisor mentioned that the national election might be held next year. What is your view?

Andaleeve Rahman Partho: We think elections could be held after updating the voter list. Possibly, late next year or early 2026. The government is discussing reforms, and we’ve submitted our proposals. A roadmap from the government would clarify the timeline.

Question: BNP has proposed forming a national government after the election. Do you agree?

Andaleeve Rahman Partho: Given the situation left by the Awami League after 16 years, forming a national government is a necessity. The proposal is significant and positive, and I believe it will be accepted by all.

Question: Some are demanding Awami League be declared ineligible for elections due to genocide allegations. Should this be considered?
Andaleeve Rahman Partho: The future of a political party should be determined by the people, not through decrees. If a party loses its core values and engages in violence, there should be a constitutional provision to ban them.

Question: Should Awami League face trial for genocide?

Andaleeve Rahman Partho: Yes, Awami League should be tried for genocide if they endorsed such actions collectively.

Question: How do you view the banning of Bangladesh Chhatra League?

Andaleeve Rahman Partho: Very positively. They were involved in various crimes rather than politics.

Question: Should local government elections be held before the national elections?

Andaleeve Rahman Partho: Yes, local elections would help assess the government and Commission’s capabilities.

Question: What are your views on constitutional amendments in the current context?

Andaleeve Rahman Partho: Major issues like balancing powers between the President and Prime Minister, and ensuring representation for all professions, including expatriates and garment workers, should be considered.

Question: What is your opinion on Jamaat-e-Islami’s politics?

Andaleeve Rahman Partho: Jamaat is a political, not an Islamic, party. Their role during the 1971 Liberation War remains controversial.

Question: Student leaders of the recent movement are considering forming a political party. What’s your take?

Andaleeve Rahman Partho: I welcome it. If they aim to represent people, we will support them with experience and guidance.

Question: Jamaat wants proportional representation in national elections. Do you agree?

Andaleeve Rahman Partho: Such a decision requires extensive discussion and should be made by an elected government.

Question: How do you view lawsuits against businessmen in some places?
Andaleeve Rahman Partho: It is extreme harassment and unacceptable unless politically involved.

Question: What are your main expectations from the interim government?

Andaleeve Rahman Partho: To implement election-focused reforms and return power to the people quickly, prosecute genocides, and recover stolen wealth.

Question: Are you satisfied with the government’s performance so far?
Andaleeve Rahman Partho: It’s too early to judge, but they have started well, and we are supporting them.

Question: What’s your appeal to the interim government and the public?

Andaleeve Rahman Partho: The government should ensure security and market stability, while citizens should vote responsibly, without emotional decisions.

Interviewer: Thank you, Barrister Andaleeve Rahman Partho, for your time.

Andaleeve Rahman Partho: Thank you.

Source: Bangladesh Pratidin

BDST: 1128 HRS, DEC 03, 2024