BNP's legal affairs secretary Barrister Kayser Kamal said the "minus-two" formula will not yield any result, emphasizing that it is already clear that Khaleda Zia and Tarique Rahman are indispensable figures in Bangladesh's political scenario.
Kamal further accused former autocratic rulers of siphoning off billions of taka during their tenure, using the stolen funds to orchestrate a plot to destabilize the country. He described ensuring national stability as a significant challenge.
Additionally, Kamal confirmed that BNP is fully prepared to participate in elections at any time under a Caretaker Government. These remarks were made in an interview with Bangladesh Pratidin on Monday.
Bangladesh Pratidin: What are your expectations from the Interim Government?
Kayser Kamal: The expectations of the people from the Interim Government are enormous. It is these very expectations that forced the autocrat Sheikh Hasina to flee the country. Over the past 16-17 years, it has not only been BNP but the people of Bangladesh who have endured widespread oppression. There is a growing demand for change across almost every sector of the country, and this change will be initiated through the Interim Government.
Bangladesh Pratidin: Which reforms are being prioritized by BNP?
Kayser Kamal: On July 11, 2023, BNP announced a 31-point agenda for state reforms, which the party considers a political commitment. The party's Acting Chairman, Tarique Rahman, has stated that state reform is not a fixed process; it evolves with time. As society changes, BNP will implement the necessary reforms to address its evolving needs.
Bangladesh Pratidin: BNP's Acting Chairman has stated, "A national government will be formed if we come to power." How will this be possible?
Kayser Kamal: Prior to the 12th National Parliament elections, Tarique Rahman stated, "A national government will be formed through the coordination of all active political parties against the fascist government." Over the past 16-17 years, the country has been systematically dismantled. Everyone involved in the effort to repair the state must take part in its reconstruction. It is not only political parties that are needed; Bangladesh is also home to many patriotic citizens and respected intellectuals outside of politics. The nation must be rebuilt through their collective contribution.
After the independence, Bangladesh made certain mistakes, and following the second liberation in 2024, Tarique Rahman is determined not to repeat those errors. This is why he refers to it as "It's a rainbow state. A rainbow nation."
Bangladesh Pratidin: There are calls to ban the Awami League. What is your opinion?
Kayser Kamal: Every political party engages in politics for the welfare of the people. The people of Bangladesh have already demonstrated which political party they want and which they do not.
Bangladesh Pratidin: How prepared is BNP for the upcoming national elections?
Kayser Kamal: BNP has long advocated for elections under a Caretaker Government, a position we have upheld since before 2011. The popularity and national significance of this demand were clearly demonstrated in the 2018 and 2024 elections. BNP's request to the Interim Government is to ensure that elections are held within a reasonable timeframe. We trust they understand what constitutes a reasonable period. BNP is a people-centered party and is ready for elections at any time under a Caretaker Government.
Bangladesh Pratidin: Is it possible for the current government to amend the constitution?
Kayser Kamal: Amendments or revisions to the constitution are an integral part of state reform. As circumstances change, the constitution must evolve to address the needs of the state and its people. In theory, constitutional amendments require the parliament, and such changes can only be made through elected representatives.
Bangladesh Pratidin: How do you perceive the Student-People Movement? How would you evaluate BNP's contribution to it?
Kayser Kamal:The people of the country will be the judges of BNP's contribution. It was BNP that launched the anti-autocracy movement, setting the stage for other political parties to organize. Through the Student-People Revolution, Sheikh Hasina was compelled to flee on August 5. This is not about comparing the size of anyone's contribution. The shared objective was the downfall of autocratic rule. With this goal in mind, some took to the streets earlier, while others joined later. BNP holds profound respect for all those who participated.
Bangladesh Pratidin: What is the current status of the cases filed against Khaleda Zia and Tarique Rahman?
Kayser Kamal: Numerous cases have been filed against both of them, all of which are false and politically motivated, as has already been proven. They have faith in the rule of law and the judiciary and will resolve these cases through legal channels. Some cases have already been concluded. All of them will be settled through the courts. We are grateful that the state has acknowledged the injustice done to Begum Khaleda Zia.
Bangladesh Pratidin: When is Tarique Rahman likely to return to the country?
Kayser Kamal: Millions of people, including leaders and activists, are eagerly awaiting Tarique Rahman’s return. He holds great respect for the expectations of all. He will take the necessary steps regarding his return at the appropriate time.
Bangladesh Pratidin: Students are forming political parties. What is your opinion on this?
Kayser Kamal: Everyone has the right to form a political party. Students, through a long struggle, brought about the July Revolution. It's not that students cannot form a political party; they can establish a student organization. As for those who are no longer students, having completed their education, they have the right to form political parties. The significance and role of students actively engaged in their studies in national politics will be determined by the people of the country.
Bangladesh Pratidin: There are demands for the return of Awami League leaders, including Sheikh Hasina, who have fled abroad, to stand trial...
Kayser Kamal:It is not merely a demand for justice, but a necessity for the state. If they are not held accountable, it could pave the way for the rise of another form of fascism in the future. Their exemplary trial is crucial to ensure that this generation does not experience fascism in Bangladesh during their lifetime.
Bangladesh Pratidin: There is discussion about the "minus-two" formula in political circles. What is your view?
Kayser Kamal: This has always been a subject of political discussion. The remarks made by BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on the matter certainly carry some weight. However, it has already been established that Khaleda Zia and Tarique Rahman are essential to the country's politics. Those who engage in such discussions are simply trying to exploit the situation for their own gain. Conspiracies did not succeed during the One-Eleven, and they will not succeed now, in sha allah.
Bangladesh Pratidin: Thank you so much for your valuable time.
Kayser Kamal: Thank you as well.
Translated by ARK/Bd-Pratidin English
