BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed. File photo

DHAKA, Aug 16, 2025 (BSS) - BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed said today that those expressing concerns and making statements about the upcoming elections, they are not part of the democratic forces in the country.

"Those who are spreading fear about the election through various statements against democracy are not forces of democracy. They are not advocates for the people of the country. For unknown reasons, they may be attempting to manipulate the narrative to delay, disrupt or prevent the elections from taking place," Salahuddin said.

He made the remarks during a Milad and Dua Mahfil held marking the 81st birthday anniversary of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Juba Dal the event at the party's Nayapaltan office.

Salahuddin called for the unity of the countrymen in the face of anti-democratic forces. 

"The people of the country are united and determined to uphold democracy and exercise their right to vote. They will stand against anyone attempting to halt this democratic journey with sophistries and arguments designed to create obstacles," he said.

The senior BNP leader also called on all democratic political parties to unite in the pursuit of a free and fair election.

Wishing Begum Khaleda Zia good health and a long life, Salahuddin praised her leadership, describing her as an indomitable force in the country's history.

"The people of a nation with a leader like Begum Khaleda Zia will never lose their way. She is not just a name rather she is history. After the martyrdom of President Ziaur Rahman, she led the movement during nine years of autocratic military rule and earned the title of Deshnetri," he stated.

Salahuddin said Begum Zia restored democracy by overthrowing autocracy and introduced parliamentary democracy.

"In 1996, responding to public demand, she established the provision of a non-partisan caretaker government in the Constitution, solidifying her legacy in the fight for democracy," he said.

Highlighting Begum Zia's ongoing guidance in contemporary politics, Salahuddin said, "We are following her direction as we seek a democratic transition. She has consistently stressed that dialogue and consensus are essential to ease the path to democracy. As per her guidance, we have engaged in discussions with both the government and other democratic parties."

Salahuddin reiterated the BNP's commitment to a free, fair and peaceful election. "We are working toward a national consensus to ensure the democracy for which our children have given their lives, shed blood, and been disabled," he said. 

"We have fought for democracy for 16-17 years. To build a strong democratic foundation and a state based on equality, we must preserve national unity. The unity we have forged against fascism must be transformed into a powerful force."