BNP senior leader Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury on Monday warned that the consequences will be very dire if the current government wants to cling to power by force instead of reaching an understanding with political parties over the next polls.

Speaking at a discussion, he also called upon the government to come to the path of ‘democracy’ and hold the next polls under a non-party neutral government, reports the UNB.

‘We want the restoration of democracy in the country. There’s no alternative to holding the next polls under a non-party neutral administration to do so. The consequences will be very serious if you (AL) try to hang onto power by force without reaching a negotiation,’ he said.

Muktijuddher Chetona Bastobayon Parishad organised the programme at Dhaka Reporters’ Unity (DRU), marking the ‘National Revolution and Solidarity Day’.

Khasru, a BNP standing committee member, also warned that it will take a long time for Awami League to stage a fresh comeback to the political landscape if the party is ousted through a movement. ‘You have such a bad experience. You’d remained out of politics and power for a long time for committing the same mistake earlier in the past (1975).’

He said the current parliament must be dissolved before the 11th parliamentary elections to create a level-playing field for all.

The BNP leader also demanded the Election Commission amend the RPO to define the armed forces as the law enforcement agencies and engage them in the next polls for ensuring a fair balloting.