BNP and NCP Meet with Chief Advisor, Demand Election Commission Restructuring

Staff Reporter | PNN:

On Tuesday, BNP met with Chief Advisor Professor Muhammad Yunus and advised the interim government to assume the role of a neutral caretaker government. They also called for action regarding the 'party-affiliated' members within the advisory council. The following day, leaders of the National Citizen Party (NCP) raised the same issue in their meeting with the Chief Advisor.

In the afternoon of Wednesday, a delegation of the NCP, led by its convener Nahid Islam, met with the Chief Advisor at the State Guest House Jamuna. In the meeting, NCP leaders explained their position regarding the BNP's call for a 'caretaker government role' and the removal of 'party-affiliated' advisors.

NCP's legal advisor Asif Nazirul informed the meeting that BNP did not demand a 'caretaker government' but rather a neutral role for the interim government. However, NCP leaders argued that the interim government is a revolutionary government, whose mandate is to carry out reforms, justice, and elections. According to them, advising the government to assume the role of a caretaker government is a malicious move.

The meeting discussed issues related to justice, the July Accords, and the election roadmap. NCP leaders stated that they had discussed the disruption of the judicial process, threats to those injured during the July popular uprising, and reforms to the Election Commission.

Additionally, in line with BNP's request, the Chief Advisor was urged to take action against the student advisors. However, NCP leaders stated that such action should not be limited to student advisors but should also apply to advisors representing other political parties and groups.

The NCP also called for action regarding the restructuring of the Election Commission, asserting that the current behavior of the Election Commission is biased, and they have proposed its restructuring.

Nahid Islam said, "There is division among political parties in the administration, which is questioning the neutrality of the government." He added, "To ensure the neutrality of the government, the Chief Advisor should make decisions and take action against those showing affiliation with political parties and bias."

The NCP leaders confirmed during the meeting that they have sought specific assurance regarding the signing of the July Accords and support for taking the next steps through public opinion and a referendum.