BNP Standing Committee Member Major (retd) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed today said that calling for a movement before the new government takes oath is not a positive sign.

“The opposition party should also present its programme considering the suffering of the people… It is regrettable, but the truth is that the new government has not yet taken the oath. They (opposition party) have called for a movement today. This is not a good sign for Bangladesh. We have to wait,” he said.

He made the remarks after attending a discussion at Raowa Club in the capital marking the 42nd death anniversary of General Muhammad Ataul Gani Osmani, commander-in-chief during the 1971 War of Independence.

Replying to a query about the role of opposition leaders in the new parliament, the senior BNP leader said, “BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman has visited the residences of opposition leaders. This is completely new in Bangladesh. It has brought positive news to the political arena of the country. We hope for good relations with the opposition.”

Regarding the formation of the new cabinet, Hafiz Uddin Ahmed said, “I do not know anything specific about it. However, those who were involved in the long struggle against the fascist government will certainly have a place in it. The new cabinet will be formed with a blend of young and experienced leaders.”

Recalling General Osmani’s outstanding contribution to the Liberation War, Hafiz Uddin Ahmed said the commander has been deprived of the dignity and respect he deserves.

“We were very fortunate to have a leader like him during the War of Independence,” he said.

Referring to the Liberation War, the BNP leader added that the history of the war has been repeatedly distorted, and the true account has not been allowed to be known.

The discussion was organised by the Retired Armed Forces Officers Welfare Association (RAOWA), while RAOWA Chairman Col. (Retd.) Mohammad Abdul Haque delivered the welcome address, and Acting General Secretary Lt. Col. (Retd.) Abu Nowroz Khurshid gave the opening remarks.

Former Air Force Chief Air Vice Marshal (Retd.) AG Mahmud, Major (Retd.) Jamil D. Ahsan, economist Mahbub Ullah, RAOWA member Air Commodore (Retd.) Md. Shafiqul Islam, and others were also present at the event.