Senior Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Tuesday called for the prosecution of three former Chief Election Commissioners (CECs) who oversaw the country’s controversial national elections in 2014, 2018, and 2024.
Speaking to reporters after placing wreaths at the grave of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Rizvi alleged that the former election officials were complicit in undermining Bangladesh’s democratic process.
“These three former Election Commissioners are directly responsible for dismantling the electoral system and democracy itself,” Rizvi said. “They oversaw elections that were riddled with irregularities—from midnight voting to preventing legitimate candidates from even submitting their nominations.”
He specifically named Kazi Rakibuddin Ahmad (CEC in 2014), KM Nurul Huda (2018), and Kazi Habibul Awal (2024) as the individuals who must face legal consequences. Rizvi noted that criminal cases had already been filed, urging authorities to ensure proper legal proceedings.
The comments came amid rising political tension following the recent arrest of KM Nurul Huda, who was detained Sunday after the BNP lodged a case against him and others. Huda was presented in court on Monday and was remanded for four days for further interrogation.
Rizvi also took aim at law enforcement, questioning the role of police officers stationed at the court premises. “Why are detainees being assaulted even under police protection? Is this a sign that the police are failing to carry out their duties?” he asked.
Addressing public health issues, Rizvi expressed concern over the recent spike in COVID-19 cases and confirmed that the BNP had submitted two formal demands to the Health Adviser to improve response measures.
On the political front, Rizvi reiterated that the current administration is functioning as an interim government following the mass protests and subsequent change in leadership. He voiced optimism that a new national election date would be announced soon, allowing the people of Bangladesh to choose their next government freely.
“This interim setup must pave the way for a truly democratic election,” Rizvi said, adding that the BNP is ready to participate in a fair and inclusive electoral process.
