In a week marked by swift changes in Bangladesh, including the removal of Sheikh Hasina, widespread violence, and the establishment of an interim government, the country’s chief justice has agreed to resign as of Saturday. The timeline for new elections remains uncertain, but the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by Khaleda Zia, is expected to play a significant role.
In an exclusive interview with NDTV, Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, the BNP’s general secretary, explained that the chief justice’s resignation came in response to student protests. The chief justice was perceived as being closely tied to Hasina’s administration, which had been involved in numerous violent incidents.
Alamgir stated that if Khaleda Zia’s health permits, she will lead the BNP in the upcoming elections. He also highlighted that the BNP would focus on strengthening the India-Bangladesh relationship if it comes to power. Alamgir dismissed suggestions that the attacks on Hindus were part of a systematic agenda, attributing them instead to opportunistic individuals taking advantage of the situation.
Alamgir expressed confidence that the Bangladesh army would not interfere in the political process and denied any involvement of extremist elements in the protests. He criticized the previous regime for corrupting the judiciary and underscored the need for judicial reforms.
Regarding the election schedule, Alamgir noted that while the BNP is prepared for elections at any time, the interim government requires additional time to organize them properly. He asserted that the current electoral system is tainted and in need of reform.
Alamgir also refuted claims by Sheikh Hasina’s son, Sajeeb Wazed, regarding the nature of Hasina’s resignation. He maintained that Hasina resigned under pressure from the masses and not through coercion or gunpoint.
On the issue of minority attacks, Alamgir insisted that such incidents were not systematic but rather sporadic and exploited by some to their advantage. He maintained that communal harmony in Bangladesh is generally good.
The BNP has called for a UN investigation into any potential human rights violations, including those related to enforced disappearances and systematic killings. Alamgir expressed faith in the army’s impartiality and rejected the idea that extremist groups were involved in the protests.
Alamgir concluded that the current violence has largely subsided and assured that extremist elements were not participating in the movement against Hasina’s rule, which he believes is driven by a largely progressive student-led initiative.
