The chief adviser of the interim government said that the party will not have the opportunity to participate in the election unless the trial of the people responsible for the killing and torture during the rule of Awami League is completed. Muhammad Yunus. He said, 'Those responsible for killings and torture must be brought to justice. After the trial, they can participate in the elections. We will deal with them in the political arena.'
In an interview with Time magazine. This comment of Yunus came out. In the interview, he talks about the current situation, political unrest and future political plans. Time has highlighted the plan of the interim head of government of Bangladesh in an article.
Highlighting the goal of creating a fair, neutral and transparent election environment. Yunus said, 'We want every political party to participate in the elections with equal opportunities. But it is essential to ensure justice for those who have committed injustice against the people of the country.'
He said, 'Democracy cannot be strong in the country without establishing the rule of law. Rule of law is equal for all. There will be no favoritism or animosity towards any party. Our aim is to create a fair political environment where no one can resort to violence or lawlessness.'
Dr. Yunus said, 'Awami League can participate in the elections like any other party. We are ready to compete in their political arena. But before that they have to accept responsibility for their behavior and crimes committed in the past. Once they clear the legal hurdles, they will be welcomed to the polls.'
In an interview given to Time, he highlighted the horrors of past killings and torture, and said, 'To heal the wounds that have been created in our society, it is necessary to ensure justice. Democracy cannot be established without justice. We will not spare any wrongdoer. But this is not political revenge, but bringing those responsible to justice through the law.'
According to Time's report, the establishment of true democracy may not be possible without Awami League, the oldest political party in Bangladesh and a party with huge public support. Because of the situation in the country, Awami League members say that they are being subjected to indiscriminate attacks without any discrimination.
Zahid Malek was the Health Minister of Bangladesh till last January. While in hiding, he told TIME that even though a conspiracy case had been filed against him, he was unable to surrender in court. Because, if he surrenders, he thinks that he will not get bail.
Zahid Malek said, 'My passport has been cancelled. My family's bank account has been frozen. I am sick, suffering from heart disease. I haven't seen my family members for four months.'
According to Time's report, the influential people in Dhaka who once emphasized their connection with the Awami League, are now ending their relationship with the party. Afraid, business rivals may attack them using this relationship as a weapon.
Human rights groups have also expressed concern that journalists sympathetic to Sheikh Hasina have been stripped of their press accreditation cards and at least 25 have been charged with violence in connection with the student uprising.
However, Dr. proposed a long-term plan to end political violence. Yunus said, 'The people of the country want peace. They do not want to live in an environment of violence and chaos. Our politics will be centered on people's welfare, not on power.'
Emphasizing on the democratic implementation of the process of future elections and change of power, he said, 'We want to build a developed, democratic and transparent Bangladesh. Parties that believe in democracy can work together. But for this political parties should give utmost importance to ethics and public interest.'
Dr. seeking the cooperation of the international community in creating a fair election environment. Yunus said, 'We want international observers to participate in our election process. This will increase our credibility and prove our commitment to everyone.'
Dr. Yunus's political role has been criticized in various quarters. Many feel that he may lose his neutral position by entering politics. In response to these, he told Time magazine, 'I am not associated with any political party. I am working in the interest of the people. My aim is to establish justice and democracy.'
Expressing optimism in the interview, he said, 'People of Bangladesh want change. They expect a fair and just society. If we can take the right steps, it will be possible to take the country further.'
