Holding elections in February will clear all doubts: Fakhrul

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said that holding the national election in February would dispel all existing doubts and political uncertainty. He called for restraint and urged all parties to avoid mudslinging for the sake of national unity.

Speaking at a discussion organized at the National Press Club on Thursday to commemorate the martyrs of the July mass uprising, Fakhrul emphasized the need for mutual understanding among political parties. "There must be space for diverse opinions. We are still in chains—we have not been freed. Whenever we speak, the government accuses us of attacking them. No one is willing to listen. But do not lose hope—we will restore democracy," he said.

Addressing the same event, senior journalist and Amar Desh editor Mahmudur Rahman criticized the country's political culture, alleging that political parties remain intolerant of criticism. “The political environment has not changed. Parties are still unable to accept opposing views,” he said.

BNP Standing Committee member Dr. A.Z.M. Zahid Hossain echoed Fakhrul’s call, urging the government to step down with dignity by holding elections in February. “The government must not cling to power and create a situation where the prime minister has to flee like past autocrats,” he warned.

During the event, two families of martyred individuals and five editors were honored for their contributions.