Salauddin Ahmed, a senior leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has accused Bangladesh's interim ruler, Muhammad Yunus, of resorting to political theatrics rather than facilitating timely elections. Speaking at a rally in Dhaka on May 28, 2025, Ahmed emphasized the BNP's demand for elections to be held by December, criticizing Yunus for attempting to resign amid these calls.
Ahmed stated, "We wanted a clear election roadmap from Yunus, but instead, he staged a resignation attempt. Our objective is to have elections by December. We urge everyone to unite in calling for a neutral government, restoration of democracy, and smooth elections under the leadership of Tarique Rahman. A new Bangladesh awaits us."
This development follows recent tensions after Yunus, who assumed power last year with backing from various agitating groups and the military, threatened to resign amid pressures for early elections. He has repeatedly asserted that institutional reforms should take precedence over immediate polls.
However, this stance has alienated not only opposition parties but also some of Yunus’s initial supporters, including powerful military figures. Reports indicate a growing rift between Yunus and the army chief, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, who advocates for early elections. Yunus allegedly supports a rival faction within the military that has pro-Pakistan leanings, deepening the political and military divide.
At the rally, Ahmed warned, "There is a calculated attempt to sow discord and divide national unity. Our focus remains on empowering youth participation and building a new Bangladesh, inspired by the mass uprising on August 5."
In a related statement, BNP leader Mirza Abbas Uddin Ahmed criticized the interim government as being dominated by non-citizens, highlighting concerns over transparency and governance. "Many officials in this government are not even citizens. They speak of reforms, yet we demand clarity about developments in areas like Saint Martin’s and Sajek," he remarked.
The political situation in Bangladesh remains volatile as various factions push for control and influence over the country’s democratic trajectory.
