Interim government is undoubtedly a neutral government: Rizvi

Senior Joint Secretary General of BNP, Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, has described the interim government as “undoubtedly a neutral government.”

Rizvi made the remarks on Sunday (24 August) at an event held beneath BNP’s central office in Nayapaltan. The occasion also marked the 81st birthday of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, during which Zia Parishad distributed raincoats among rickshaw and van drivers.

Referring to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s comments on the demand for a neutral government during elections, Rizvi accused her of double standards. “Sheikh Hasina came to power through incendiary and destructive movements against the caretaker government system, only to abolish it herself,” he said. “She has no promises or commitments.”

Rizvi outlined public expectations from the interim government, emphasizing peace, stability, and justice. “People’s last refuge is the judiciary, where they will receive justice. While the government shows some sincerity, inflation remains high, prices have yet to fall, and unemployment is rising,” he said. “Factories are closing one after another, and without employment, signs of famine will emerge.”

He criticized government advisors for living comfortably while the common people struggle. “Your advisors can eat duck meat anywhere, but the people cannot,” Rizvi remarked.

Highlighting the need to boost employment, he warned, “If unemployment continues, the country will face famine.”

Rizvi also spoke on the upcoming July elections, stating that any constitutional amendments would be made by the elected parliament. He criticized calls for a referendum prior to elections and condemned Sheikh Hasina’s alleged interference with the judiciary.

Calling for free and fair elections, Rizvi urged the establishment of a people’s government that would amend the constitution as necessary for the country and democracy. He warned that fascist forces remain active within the administration and could work against the interim government if given the chance.

The event was attended by BNP Joint Secretary General Abdus Salam Azad, Volunteer Affairs Secretary Mir Sarafat Ali Sopu, Zia Parishad President Professor Abdul Latif, General Secretary Emtaz Hossain, and others.