Those opposing polls by Dec must explain why

Those who want to delay the next parliamentary polls must explain the rationale behind their decision, said BNP standing committee member Nazrul Islam Khan yesterday.

"Why postpone the people's right to vote? If some parties need time to organise or build alliances, that should not hinder the election," he said at a discussion organised by the Bangladesh Labour Party at Jatiya Press Club.

Citing the Labour Party's call for a December election, Nazrul said BNP supported the same timeline. "Those opposing this must clearly explain why the election cannot be held by December. The Election Commission has already said it can be ready by June -- so what is the obstacle?"

He added that a phase of the one-point movement, launched in August last year, had already succeeded with the fall of what he termed "fascism".

"Now people await the fulfilment of the rest of their demands. Many young voters have never had the chance to cast their first vote. Voting is their highest political right," he said.

Nazrul also reiterated BNP's support for political reform. "There are two ways to bring change -- revolution and reform. While revolution is sudden, reform is a consensual, step-by-step process."

He proposed the creation of a reform charter by June, with all political parties agreeing and signing it. Immediate reforms could be implemented through legislation or ordinances, while those requiring constitutional changes could be addressed by the next elected parliament.

"Even if not by June, this process can be completed by July," he said, again questioning the reason behind any delay in holding polls.

"No system is better than an elected government. It may be slow or flawed, but democracy remains our only path forward," Nazrul added.