BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has criticized the interim administration for failing to announce a specific date for the national election, even after 10 months in office.
Speaking virtually at a discussion marking the 44th death anniversary of party founder Ziaur Rahman, Tarique said the delay has created political and economic uncertainty.
He warned that the lack of a fixed election timeline is stalling investment and forcing industrial closures, citing media reports and business sources. “Hundreds of factories have shut down, and many more are at risk,” he noted.
Tarique reiterated BNP’s demand that elections be held by December, stressing that people are eager to vote and establish an accountable government.
He also criticized the interim advisers for being disconnected from public concerns, relying on bureaucratic processes rather than direct engagement.
He acknowledged the interim government’s origin in a mass uprising but emphasized that it lacks full democratic accountability.
“Every democratic party has submitted reform proposals, but the government’s inaction is causing frustration,” he added.
The event, held at the Institution of Engineers auditorium in Dhaka, was presided over virtually by BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, with senior party leaders also addressing the gathering.
Tarique Rahman emphasized that while the interim government may have gained temporary legitimacy under exceptional circumstances, its prolonged tenure without a clear mandate is undermining democratic norms and governance.
He warned that the delay in setting an election date is not just a political issue, but one that is deepening the country’s economic crisis and eroding public confidence.
Highlighting the disconnect between the interim administration and the general public, Tarique argued that policymaking without grassroots engagement cannot address the real problems faced by citizens.
"Governance through files and office discussions, without public interaction, is ineffective and unrepresentative," he said.
He also pointed out that despite broad consensus among political parties on proposed electoral and governance reforms, the government's failure to act on these proposals is prolonging instability.
Tarique urged the interim administration to immediately set an election date and work toward a smooth, democratic transition, warning that continued delays risk deepening national discontent.
