The Bangladesh Nationalist Party on Saturday called for a thorough review of the recent incidents, alleging that they were occurring behind the facade of religion, and urged all to remain vigilant.

‘We must look deeply into the incidents happening in the name of religion. We need to be alert,’ BNP standing committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury said at the 7th National Council of Gonoforum, held at the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh.

Referring to recent developments in Chattogram and other parts of the country, the BNP standing committee member expressed his concern, terming the incidents totally unexpected.

Those who had not taken to the streets in the past 16 years were now staging demonstrations, he said, adding that other driving forces were behind them, and it should not be ignored.

Highlighting the challenges facing the country, Khasru stressed that moving towards a vision of a democratic and peaceful Bangladesh was imperative at the moment.

‘We need to take the country to the place we have always dreamt of. In the past, when this vision was not pursued, it gave rise to monsters. The only way forward is through a peaceful transfer of power,’ he said.

Khasru reiterated the need for democracy for restoring people’s ownership over the country.

He also pointed out that his party’s 31-point state reform outline was a significant contribution to future governance.

The BNP leader assured that after the next election and formation of a national government, implementation of the 31-point reform plan would be prioritised.

‘There is no need for others to worry about reforms,’ Khasru said, adding that the focus should be on electoral reforms to ensure the country’s return to its rightful owners—the people.