Counter Politics with Politics, Not Force

Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain, a member of the BNP’s Standing Committee, emphasized that political challenges should be addressed through political means, not through force. He made these remarks on Friday (August 22) during a discussion titled *“The Importance of National Elections in Ensuring Democracy and Human Rights”* organized by the Medical Council of the World Human Rights Organization Bangladesh at the National Press Club.

Dr. Zahid Hossain stated, “If elections are delayed or not held on time, who benefits? It’s the fugitive dictator who gains. Those who, knowingly or unknowingly, push for demands that delay elections—are they indirectly working in favor of the dictator? Have they considered this? If their actions create uncertainty about whether elections will take place, the fugitive dictator will benefit. Is this what the July 36 movement was for?”

He further noted, “I’ve observed that Badiul Alam Majumdar has finally spoken out, and I commend him for realizing the truth. He now says that adopting the PR system would lead the country toward destruction.” Dr. Zahid added that the interim government, led by Dr. Muhammad Yunus, has requested the Chief Election Commissioner to hold elections by mid-February, and the Election Commission should promptly announce an election roadmap. Highlighting BNP’s commitment to the people, he said, “Those talking about reforms today must understand that BNP initiated this practice. Those speaking now have never fulfilled such responsibilities. Whether they will in the future remains to be seen. But BNP has always stood by the people, carrying their aspirations and prioritizing their fundamental rights.” He continued, “Good governance requires accountability. A truly corruption-free Bangladesh began under Begum Khaleda Zia’s leadership. BNP believes in good governance, and every commission you see today is linked to the names of Shaheed Ziaur Rahman, Begum Khaleda Zia, or BNP.” Commenting on the 31-point program, Dr. Zahid clarified, “The 31-point state reform program is not just BNP’s agenda. It is a collective program of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and like-minded democratic political parties. It represents the united efforts of those who fought for democracy against dictatorship.” Addressing all political parties, he urged, “I respectfully request everyone to read the writing on the wall. Counter politics with politics, not force. Having strength is good, but it matters how you use it. If you use it for justice, people will applaud you. If you use it to perpetuate injustice, people will call you extremists.” He concluded, “You have the right to speak, but you must also be willing to listen. Without this, there will be no democracy in this country, and without democracy, there will be no human rights. To ensure democracy and human rights, people must be given the opportunity to exercise their voting rights.” The discussion was chaired by Professor Dr. Abdul Latif Masum, Chairman of the World Human Rights Organization Bangladesh. Attendees included Advocate Subrata Chowdhury, Executive President of Ganaforum, Senior Supreme Court Advocate AM Shawkatul Haque, former President of Chhatra Dal Central Committee Abul Kashem Chowdhury, and other leaders.

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