Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Monday voiced frustration that the Head of the Interim Government of Bangladesh Prof. Mohammad Yunus’ address to the nation lacked a roadmap for transition to democracy.

Speaking at a discussion, Fakhrul hoped that the interim government would soon engage in talks with political parties to decide on the national election and state reforms.  He said the Chief Adviser, in his speech, indicated some reforms, but these cannot be implemented in a short timeframe. However, he expressed optimism, noting that they believe the situation is moving in a positive direction for the benefit of the people.

Fakhrul said Dr Yunus correctly stated that the timing of the election is a matter of political decision. He expressed hope that the Chief Adviser will soon begin talks with the political parties in this regard.

Earlier on Sunday evening, the Interim government’s Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus addressed the nation and assured that a free, fair, and participatory election would be arranged after completing necessary reforms in the administration, judiciary, election commission and electoral system.

In other developments, at least 30 people were injured when clashes broke out between students and protesting Ansar personnel near the Secretariat in Dhaka on Sunday night. The clash started after 9 pm, following reports that key figures from the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement are under siege at the Secretariat. As the news spread, students from several halls of Dhaka University gathered and marched towards the Secretariat area, demanding the release of the coordinators. 

Earlier on Sunday afternoon, a paramilitary auxiliary force, ‘Bangladesh Ansar’ personnel had blockaded the Secretariat complex, preventing any entry or exit for an indefinite time demanding the nationalization of their jobs.