Weekly Bangla Mirror | Bangla Mirror, Bangladeshi news in UK, bangla mirror news
BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has expressed deep concern over Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami’s proposal to hold a referendum on the July Charter in November, calling it a potential ‘master plan’ to delay the upcoming national election.
Speaking at a discussion hosted by Jatiyatabadi Ulema Dal at Jatiya Press Club on Tuesday, Rizvi questioned Jamaat’s motives, warning that the move could disrupt the electoral timeline and create unnecessary confusion.
“Most political parties have already agreed that the referendum will be held alongside the national election; a decision aimed at saving time and resources,” he said. “Now, Jamaat suddenly wants the referendum in November. Why this change? What are they really planning?”
Rizvi argued that holding a separate referendum just a month ahead of the election would be logistically challenging and politically destabilizing.
“If it’s in November, the general election will fall right after Eid-ul-Azha. Is this a tactic to delay or derail the process?”
He further accused Jamaat of sowing confusion after all parties had come to an understanding on the July Charter. “Why backtrack now? People are asking why Jamaat and a few others are trying to complicate something that has already been settled.”
Rizvi didn’t hold back in his criticism of Jamaat, accusing the party of exploiting religion for political gain.
“They’re behaving like medieval priests, promising heaven in exchange for votes. This is nothing but deceit,” he said.
He also alleged that Jamaat has been using online platforms to spread misinformation and manipulate religious sentiments.
“Islam does not allow such exploitation. Faith is sacred and should not be turned into a political weapon,” Rizvi stressed.
He warned that such actions harm both democracy and the country’s religious harmony.
“In a Muslim-majority nation like Bangladesh, where Islam is deeply respected, using religion to divide people or win votes is completely unacceptable.”
Rizvi also questioned Jamaat’s political integrity, alleging that the party has a history of aligning with Awami League when it suits their interests. “They’ve often found ways to collaborate with the AL for political gains. Their actions show little regard for democratic principles.”
Calling for unity, Rizvi urged all pro-democracy forces to remain alert and united in the push for a credible, inclusive national election under a neutral interim administration.
