Salahuddin Ahmed, a standing committee member of the BNP, has sharply criticized the interim government, stating it’s merely “showing s” (an idiom for deceptive or futile actions) in the name of “reforms” and taking no concrete steps to hold elections by December.
He made these remarks on Saturday, May 31, at a discussion organized by Krishak Dal at the Institution of Diploma Engineers in Dhaka, commemorating the 44th death anniversary of BNP founder and former President Ziaur Rahman.
Salahuddin derided the government’s reform efforts as a repetitive “drama,” questioning how many times it would be “inaugurated.” He expressed frustration over the Chief Advisor’s call for another round of dialogue on June 2, stating that all previous discussions should simply be compiled and presented to the nation, as nothing substantial is being achieved.
He emphasized that ensuring justice for crimes against humanity and demanding accountability for “fascists” should be the highest priority, even more so than reforms. Salahuddin accused the government of reneging on its prior commitment to hold elections by December, calling this retreat “extremely unfortunate.”
Recalling his own alleged abduction by intelligence agents from his Uttara home on March 10, 2015, Salahuddin highlighted the sacrifices made by BNP activists, who have “shed blood, been tortured, imprisoned, and confined in ‘Aynaghar’ (mirror house).” He stressed that these experiences were not mere “stories” but real sufferings endured.
The BNP leader asserted that the party’s ongoing protests aim to restore democracy, reclaim voting rights, and build an egalitarian society. Addressing the Chief Advisor, Salahuddin expressed disappointment that advocating for democratic rights causes “uncomfortableness,” and questioned the prolonged delay of elections under the guise of reform.
He challenged the justification for postponing the elections, stating there is “no logical reason” and urged Dr. Yunus (referring to the Chief Advisor) to present any valid reason for not holding the election in December to the nation. While acknowledging reform as an ongoing process, Salahuddin firmly stated that it’s unacceptable to use it as an excuse to indefinitely postpone election dates.
The discussion, presided over by Krishak Dal General Secretary Shahidul Islam Babul, also saw the attendance of BNP Acting Chairman’s advisor Mahdi Amin, executive committee member Tabith Awal, and other Krishak Dal leaders.
