Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Nayeb-e-Ameer Dr. Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher, said on Tuesday (October 7) that the upcoming national election must be held on the foundation of agreed reforms.

Speaking to reporters at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport after returning from the UN General Assembly session, Taher said there is no uncertainty about holding the election in February. 

However, he warned that a flawed or hasty election cannot resolve the ongoing political crisis.

“A credible and acceptable election is the only way out of the current situation,” he said, adding that several key issues need to be resolved beforehand.

Taher said discussions held with advisers and companions in New York also highlighted concerns that a weak election would not solve the crisis. Referring to the 2014, 2018, and 2024 elections, he said these polls have only deepened political instability.

He stressed that February’s election is vital for restoring democratic governance in the country.

“Past experience shows that a free, fair, and participatory election is the only solution,” he said. “To make that possible, the government must urgently take decisions on certain matters—chief among them is giving legal effect to the July Agreement.”

Taher criticised the delay in implementing the agreement, despite all parties reaching a policy consensus months ago.

“If this pattern of conspiracy and inaction continues and necessary reforms are not implemented, the entire process will come under question,” he warned.

He insisted that the election must take place in February, based on reforms that already have political consensus and legal backing.

“Those responsible for delaying the election or obstructing reforms will have to answer to the nation,” he added.

SMS/