Controversial claim by BNP's Hafiz: Regarding the past 15 years of governance under Hasina, renowned academic Yunus refrained from expressing criticism, alleges Hafiz.
In a powerful speech on August 2, 2022, BNP Standing Committee member Major (retd) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed criticized the current political situation in Bangladesh, particularly the alleged misrule of Sheikh Hasina and the Awami League.
During a discussion organized by the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB Dhaka Centre), Hafiz accused Sheikh Hasina of destroying democracy during her 17 years in power, stating that her regime was oppressive and brought the country to its current dire state. He asserted that BNP will bring those responsible to justice if it returns to power.
Regarding Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, Hafiz criticized his "complete silence" on Sheikh Hasina’s 15 years of alleged misrule, implying a lack of impartiality or action from Yunus’s side. He also cautioned the Yunus-led interim government against attempting to extend its tenure beyond a reasonable limit (10-20 years), urging them to avoid staying in power excessively.
Hafiz Uddin Ahmed expressed readiness for upcoming elections and believes BNP unity is key to establishing a democratic Bangladesh as envisioned by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman. He emphasized that only through a proper election can a truly democratic system be established.
In a poignant moment, Hafiz lamented that a political party which opposed Bangladesh's Liberation War is now questioning the sacrifices made in 1971. He expressed sorrow that the interim government has not taken meaningful steps to fulfill the dreams of the martyrs or ease the suffering of their families.
Hafiz also criticized the autocratic regime of Sheikh Hasina, stating that Bangladesh is no longer a people's republic, but is now controlled by oligarchy, mobocracy, and aristocracy. He suggested that the only reform needed is to hold national elections under a non-partisan caretaker government to ensure a free and fair vote.
Hafiz Uddin Ahmed alleged that those who have tasted power do not want to leave it and are continuing to drag things out with excuses like reforms. He questioned how such people are getting the chance to say these things, as he was wounded in the war and felt disappointed that his dreams were not fulfilled by the Awami League.
In a moving statement, Hafiz said that it is heartbreaking that the heroes who gave their lives in times of national crisis are often forgotten once that time passes, mainly because of the selfishness of political parties. He questioned the benefit of discussing new ideas every day and comparing examples from America, London, or Germany, suggesting a focus on holding a proper election in Bangladesh.
[1] The Daily Star, "BNP accuses Sheikh Hasina of destroying democracy", August 3, 2022. [2] Prothom Alo, "BNP criticizes Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus for not speaking against Sheikh Hasina's alleged misgovernance", August 3, 2022. [3] Dhaka Tribune, "BNP criticizes Yunus for not speaking against Sheikh Hasina's alleged misgovernance", August 3, 2022. [4] The Financial Express, "BNP warns interim government against prolonged tenure", August 4, 2022. [5] The Business Standard, "BNP warns interim government against prolonged tenure", August 4, 2022.
- Following Hafiz Uddin Ahmed's speech, discussions on policy-and-legislation and politics are expected to revolve around critiques of the current state of Bangladesh, with focus on war-and-conflicts, the alleged misrule of Sheikh Hasina and the Awami League, and demands for a proper election to establish a democratic system.
- In the realm of crime-and-justice, Hafiz Uddin Ahmed has emphasized the necessity of BNP's return to power to bring those responsible for the alleged misrule to justice, also cautioning the Yunus-led interim government against prolonging its tenure and violating the principles of democracy.
