Grant army magistracy power only where necessary: Fakhrul

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Thursday (19 September) expressed concerns over the recent decision to grant magistracy power to the army, saying that it is likely to lead to the emergence of new problems as it reflects a failure of other institutions to carry out their responsibilities effectively.

Speaking at a programme at the Thakurgaon Press Club, he said, "The army has been given magistracy power. This is a concerning development, as it indicates a failure of the administration to maintain law and order. It also suggests that other institutions are not functioning."

Fakhrul said he believes that the army should be granted magistracy power only in areas that have become out of control.

He, however, said in peaceful areas where political leaders are managing the situation, empowering the army with magistracy power would not be appropriate and could create new problems. "It wouldn't be a prudent move."

"I urge the interim government to reconsider this matter. They should not take any such steps that could ultimately backfire on them and be detrimental to politics and the people of the country," he said.

At the programme, Fakhrul spoke with the family members of those killed and injured in Thakurgaon during the student-led anti-discrimination movement at the press club's VIP hall. He also provided them with financial assistance.

The BNP secretary general said they are hopeful that the interim government will eliminate all obstacles and create an environment conducive to a fair and inclusive democratic election.

"A parliament representing the people will be formed through that election. I urge the interim government to ensure that we can genuinely achieve a democratic state. Democracy means having an elected government and a functioning parliament," he said.

Fakhrul also stated that he believes allowing politicians to fulfil their political duties is the only solution to the country's political problems.

He said the interim government, led by Dr Muhammad Yunus, was formed with the support of all following the fall of Sheikh Hasina's regime. "They (govt) are working to bring to justice the crimes committed by Sheikh Hasina's administration within a short period. Sheikh Hasina was the main perpetrator behind these crimes, and thousands of lives have been lost under her orders."

Fakhrul pointed out that the oppression under Sheikh Hasina's regime began well before the recent student and public movements, dating back to 2012.

He claimed that over 700 members of the BNP were forcibly disappeared and taken to 'Aynaghor,' while several thousand party leaders and activists were killed.

The BNP leader said their party also seeks reforms, as they do not wish to see a situation where people are subjected to injustice and oppression.

"There should be no more shootings and killings of children. I urge the government to compile a list of those injured in the anti-discrimination movement and take the necessary measures for their medical treatment," he said.

Fakhrul became emotional while speaking about the victims of the student-led mass movement against Sheikh Hasina.

"This is truly heartbreaking for me. Among those present at this event is a sixth-grade student who was injured by gunfire during the anti-discrimination movement. Many fathers are here who have lost their children and do not know why their sons have become martyrs. Many individuals have lost their eyesight or had limbs amputated. We have had to witness this in our independent country," he lamented.

The BNP leader also said countless people have lost their businesses and land, and many have lost their jobs during the fascist Awami League government.

"The new interim government must recognise these issues and make the right decisions. I say this clearly as my responsibility. For the past 15 to 16 years, we have sacrificed and suffered in our struggle to remove the fascist Hasina government."