BNP should have boycotted the reform commission: Abdullah Taher

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Naib-e-Amir Dr. Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher said that if BNP does not accept the proposals of the reform commission, then they should have boycotted the commission from the beginning.

He made this comments while talking to reporters after a conference of polling station directors of his constituency at Comilla Central Hospital on Friday (October 31).

Dr. Taher said: "If BNP does not accept the reform, then it should have said from the beginning - we will not participate in this commission. But after participating in so many meetings, coming and opposing it now is an indication of irresponsibility."

He alleged that this position of BNP is a manifestation of political irresponsibility and an attempt to create a new crisis. According to him, this step is an attempt to create unnecessary doubts among the people about the upcoming February elections.

He warned that if the elections are not held, it will be dangerous for the country. "If the election is not held, those who are plotting abroad will take the opportunity," added Dr. Taher.

He further claimed: "It seems that the BNP wants to return to the Bangladesh of the past without reforms. However, the people will not allow Bangladesh to go towards instability again."

Regarding the government's position, he said: "If the government deviates from its decision, it will be seen as a lack of impartiality."

He expressed concern that if the government shows bias towards any party, then the environment for fair elections under it will be questionable.

Dr. Taher further said that according to the revised RPO, the Election Commission and the government have reached a jointly approved decision - if a party participates in the election alone or in an alliance, they will have to participate under their own symbol.

He said: "Many parties, including Jamaat, have welcomed this decision."

He raised the question: "After the matter was approved by the Advisory Council, now the BNP is saying that they do not accept it. So they are putting pressure on the government and are practically denying the RPO."

Jamaat-e-Islami Assistant Secretary General Maulana Abdul Halim, Comilla South District Amir Advocate Shahjahan and other local leaders were present at the conference.