BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Wednesday stated that under a future caretaker government, no individual with political affiliations should be allowed to remain in the administration, as the very concept of a caretaker government is rooted in non-partisanship.
“If it is truly non-partisan, then there is no place for political advisers or those with party affiliations,” Rizvi said at a press conference held at the BNP central office in Naya Paltan, addressing the current political climate.
Rizvi emphasized that those who have been involved in various misdeeds over the past 15 years, particularly individuals who acted unlawfully to protect the ruling “fascist” regime, must not be retained in state administration. He claimed many such officials did not act covertly but openly supported the regime, and they must now be identified and brought to justice.
He added that when an interim government takes the form of a caretaker administration, it must be strictly neutral and non-political. “Only then will people—especially those who have lost faith in the electoral process over the past 16 years—begin to regain confidence,” he said.
On ICT Cases Involving Army Officers
In response to a journalist’s question regarding the International Crimes Tribunal’s recent order to send 15 current and former army officers to jail over two enforced disappearance cases and one murder case linked to the July Uprising, Rizvi said:
“These matters fall under the jurisdiction of the law. If someone is accused, they should defend themselves legally. If found guilty by the court, they must serve the appropriate punishment. No interference should take place—everyone is equal in the eyes of the law.”
On the July National Charter and Politicization
Rizvi also commented that the July National Charter has been broadly accepted and called for the implementation of its commitments. Criticizing the widespread politicization of state institutions, he alleged that many top-level officials have fled the country due to political persecution.
“Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina believed her rule would last forever. But the events following August 5 changed many minds, though the law-and-order situation remains unstable,” he remarked.
BNP’s Environmental Commitment
Referring to BNP’s future plans, Rizvi said Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has pledged to plant 250 million trees if the party comes to power, as part of a broader initiative to protect the environment and restore ecological balance.
In conclusion, Rizvi stressed that free and fair elections would not be possible if partisan individuals remain within the current administrative structure. "They must be removed to ensure neutrality and public trust in the electoral process," he asserted.