"Democracy is the best system despite its flaws": Fakhrul

"Disagreement is the essence of democracy," Fakhrul said during a meeting with journalists at his residence in Tantipara. "However, protecting democracy has become a significant challenge for us."

He urged the spread of multi-party democracy or pluralism across the country, emphasizing that in a democratic system, when any political party acts in a dictatorial manner, the people have the power to remove them from power. He cited the example of the Awami League in this regard.

Describing the current political climate as "critical," Fakhrul warned that if citizens' voting rights are not safeguarded, democracy will be destroyed. "That’s why BNP has always advocated for necessary reforms to ensure free and fair elections," he added.

Refuting allegations that BNP had called for elections before reforms, Fakhrul clarified, "We have never demanded elections first and reforms later. Any claim to that effect is a misinterpretation meant to mislead the public." He reiterated that BNP’s position is clear: minimum reforms are necessary to ensure the elections are free and fair.

Fakhrul also addressed the media campaigns targeting BNP, calling the accusations that BNP wants elections before reforms as "completely false" and part of a deliberate propaganda effort to create confusion among the public.

He stressed that any political party must maintain a connection with the people, adding, "We respect those working on reforms. But if anyone acts outside the people's interest, BNP will not support it."

Regarding reforms, Fakhrul stated, "We aim for the proper development of the democratic process. Any party attempting to maintain power in a dictatorial manner will harm the people. We want a democratic government formed through the people’s mandate."

District BNP Vice President Obaidullah Masud, Joint General Secretary Poygam Ali, Finance Secretary Shariful Islam Sharif, and other leaders were also present at the event.

After the meeting, Fakhrul called on BNP leaders and activists to stay united and continue their efforts to protect the people’s right to vote.