Tarique Rahman urges election by December, warns against fascism

PARBATTA NEWS DESK

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has said the national election must be held by December and stressed the need for political reforms and public empowerment to prevent authoritarianism.

In a video message marking the 18th founding anniversary of the National People’s Party (NPP), Rahman said political parties have again called on the interim government to announce a clear election date. He reiterated BNP’s demand that elections be held within December.

He said BNP and its allies would continue to support necessary reforms in public administration and law enforcement to enable a fair election under the interim government.

Rahman expressed hope that the country would see one of its most free and fair elections under the current interim leadership.

Reflecting on the past, he said democratic forces had faced repression under a “fallen and fugitive autocrat” and warned against any return to authoritarian rule.

He stressed that meaningful reform—both legal and practical—is essential for lasting political change, adding that practical reform is more urgent.

Resisting fascism, he said, requires empowering citizens politically. Only a government formed by direct vote can be fully accountable to the people.

Rahman warned that any government—elected or interim—can become authoritarian without accountability. He urged citizens to remain vocal in demanding their rights and to continue constructive criticism of the government.