Any attempt to delay the polls would be against the national interest, Ganosamhati Andolan Chief Coordinator Zonayed Saki said today (14 November), welcoming the decision to hold the national election and the referendum on the same day.

"Both the national election and the referendum must be completed by February. This election will be the election of the Constitutional Reform Council, which will build a new democratic framework with the people's approval," Saki said while addressing the party's 10-year anniversary rally in front of the National Museum at Shahbagh.

He said that the long-standing "fascist and repressive rule" has been overturned by an uprising, fundamentally transforming the country's political landscape.

The spirit of '71 — equality, human dignity and justice — has not been realised in 54 years. That is why a new political arrangement and fundamental state reform are essential to build an inclusive, non-discriminatory Bangladesh, he said.

Saki noted that, in the post-uprising context, all opposition political forces united regarding fundamental constitutional reforms.

"Without changing the authoritarian structure of the existing constitution, there can be no freedom for the people," he added.

He further said that the people have rejected "India-influenced politics", insisting that Bangladesh seeks dignified, equal relations and will "bow to no one."

The rally began in front of the National Museum and marched through Bata Signal, Hatirpool and several other streets.

Ganosamhati Andolan / Zonayed Saki