Election Must Proceed as Planned, Says Amir Khasru: “Khaleda Zia Wants Democracy Above All”

BNP leader Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has reiterated that the health condition of party chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia should not—and will not—affect the timing of the upcoming general election. Speaking on Friday evening, he stated that calls to delay the February polls on humanitarian or political grounds were misplaced and ignored Khaleda Zia’s lifelong commitment to democratic governance.

At a discussion organised at the Krishibid Institute in Dhaka, Khasru stressed that the election schedule is a constitutional matter and should not be tied to an individual’s medical condition. “The election stands where the election stands,” he said. “The illness of Begum Khaleda Zia has no relevance to whether or not the polls should proceed on time. If anyone has fought hardest for democratic elections in Bangladesh, it is Begum Khaleda Zia.”

He noted that throughout her political career, Khaleda Zia has stood firmly for the restoration of voting rights and the empowerment of citizens. According to him, the suggestion that the election should be postponed due to her illness is contrary to everything she has worked for.

Highlighting her dedication, Khasru explained that her vision has always centred on ensuring that the people elect their own representatives freely. “Her desire has always been the same: that Bangladesh return to a genuine democratic process, that people regain their ownership of the country, and that power remains accountable to the public,” he said.

Addressing questions about her medical condition, he confirmed that preparations for sending Khaleda Zia abroad for advanced treatment have been completed. “All arrangements for her treatment overseas are ready. The moment doctors provide the final clearance, she will be flown to London,” he said. “But her treatment has no connection to the timing of the national election. These are separate matters.”

He criticised attempts to politicise her illness, arguing that such efforts were coming from those who misunderstand or misrepresent Khaleda Zia’s political philosophy. “Those questioning whether the election should be delayed due to her health are overlooking her unwavering commitment to democracy,” he said. “She has always insisted on elections that reflect the people’s will.”

Khasru argued that using her illness as grounds for electoral rescheduling would amount to undermining her own struggle. He said Khaleda Zia has endured imprisonment, political persecution and physical hardship in defence of democratic values. To suggest that she would favour delaying a national election contradicts her lifelong sacrifices.

He stressed once again that the BNP chairperson’s health crisis must be treated purely as a medical matter, not a political instrument. “Whatever her physical condition, she will always stand for the people’s right to vote and for a government chosen by the people,” he said.

Concluding his remarks, Amir Khasru stated that the political responsibility to hold a credible, participatory and peaceful election lies with the authorities—not with any individual leader’s personal circumstances. “The question of delaying the election does not arise,” he said. “The people must be allowed to choose their government, which is exactly what Begum Khaleda Zia has always fought for.”