Voters yearning for genuine democratic choice: Amir Khosru

BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has said that citizens across Bangladesh are waiting with anticipation to exercise their right to vote in the next national election, after being denied meaningful participation in recent polls.

Speaking in Kathmandu on Tuesday, the former commerce minister stressed that the upcoming election, scheduled for February next year, carries special significance for millions of Bangladeshis eager to elect representatives through a process that is transparent and accountable.

“People were unable to cast their votes in the last three or four elections. Now they are waiting for the day they can finally elect their representatives,” Khosru said at a photography and graffiti exhibition titled *July Beyond the Borders*, hosted by the Bangladesh Embassy in Nepal to mark the anniversary of last year’s July-August mass uprising.

The event was attended by Bangladesh Ambassador Md Shafiqur Rahman, Chattogram Hill Tracts Affairs Adviser Supradip Chakma, SAARC Secretary-General, diplomats, and representatives from various political and civil society groups. Adviser Supradip expressed optimism that the coming election would be inclusive and credible, ensuring full participation of voters.

Reflecting on the July Uprising, Khosru described it as the result of more than a decade-long struggle for democracy and political rights. He recalled the sacrifices made during that period, noting that many lost their lives, livelihoods, and health, while others faced imprisonment and repression.

“The frustration and anger of the people culminated in the July-August movement, which ultimately forced the fascist regime to step down,” he remarked, referring to the ouster of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina.

Turning to regional cooperation, Khosru said Bangladesh and Nepal have significant untapped potential in trade, hydropower, agriculture, tourism, and cultural exchange. He emphasized that energy collaboration, particularly in hydropower, could be transformative for Bangladesh’s development needs.

“It is time to deepen our ties. Together we can create a future of mutual benefit and respect,” he said, highlighting Dhaka’s foreign policy principle of non-interference and partnership.

Dr Tasnim Jara, a senior leader of the National Citizen Party, also addressed the event, calling for fundamental systemic reforms to ensure that citizens’ rights are safeguarded and respected.