BNP leader Salahuddin signals street protests if interim government delays national polls

He warns that street protests might be necessary to put the government on the ‘right path’

BNP leader Salahuddin Ahmed has suggested that the party may launch a swift movement to press for elections, warning that street protests might be necessary to put the government on the “right path”.

Speaking at a discussion at the National Press Club on Wednesday afternoon, Salahuddin said the government must justify any delay in holding elections to the people.

Pointing out that an interim government, like any administration, can make mistakes, he said: “It is the responsibility of journalists, political parties, democratic forces, and social groups to highlight those mistakes.”

“From that standpoint, our party is considering taking swift measures to correct the government's mistakes, bring it back on track, and pave the way for an elected political government,: he said.

“You may call it a movement or criticism—whatever you prefer,” he added.

Referring to Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus, the BNP Standing Committee member said: “The honourable chief advisor often says that we should engage in more criticism to keep the government on the right course.”

He added, “One good thing about this government is that even when it makes wrong decisions, it does not remain stubborn. It corrects its mistakes when criticised. When a government does that, it proves that it belongs to the people.”

Emphasising the need for strong criticism to keep the interim administration on the right path, Salahuddin said: “If we want this interim government to succeed, we must be critical enough to guide and direct it.

“We may even have to take to the streets to ensure that the government stays on the right track.”

The interim government assumed office after the fall of the Awami League administration on Aug 5, 2024, following a mass movement led by students and the public.

Since then, it has initiated reforms across various sectors.

Amid these reforms, political parties have intensified their calls for the next national election.

BNP has been pushing for swift elections after “necessary” reforms, while the government has prioritised reforms before considering polls.

On Jan 23, during a meeting with World Economic Forum, or WEF, founder Klaus Schwab on the sidelines of WEF’s annual conference in Switzerland’s Davos, Chief Advisor Yunus said the people of Bangladesh must decide whether they want elections in the short term or after comprehensive reforms.

Previously, Yunus had mentioned the possibility of holding elections by the end of 2025 or in the first half of 2026.