Sajeeb Wazed Joy has expressed concern that a chaotic situation may arise in Bangladesh if elections are not held soon. He has accused the interim government of allowing “mob rule” to take hold. Sajeeb Wazed has also shown interest in working with the BNP and has thanked India for “saving the life” of Sheikh Hasina.
In an interview with the international news agency AFP, Sajeeb Wazed Joy made these statements. The interview was published today, Sunday.
Sajeeb Wazed described the interim government as “completely powerless” and said, “Currently, mob rule is prevailing in Bangladesh. If the mob decides tomorrow that they do not want a certain person in the interim government, then that person must be replaced.” With these remarks, Sajeeb Wazed was referring to the removal of top officials, such as the Chief Justice, the Governor of the Central Bank, and the Police Chief, following demands from the protesters.
Sajeeb Wazed warned that delaying the elections would create a risk. Regarding the elections, he said, “Holding the elections is the most beneficial option for them (the interim government)… It is beneficial for them to return power to a legitimate government and true authority that has legitimacy with the people.” He further stated that if this (quick election) does not happen, a completely chaotic situation will arise. Highlighting the importance of the Awami League in establishing democracy in Bangladesh, Sajeeb Wazed said, “We have millions of supporters. They are not going anywhere. You cannot establish democracy in Bangladesh by excluding the Awami League. This will never be acceptable to at least half of the country’s population.” He added, “This (the election contest) will be between the BNP and the Awami League. We need to work together.”
Sajeeb Wazed Joy also believes that foreign powers were involved in inciting protests and conflicts against Sheikh Hasina. However, he could not provide any evidence to support this claim. Regarding the involvement of foreign powers, Sajeeb Wazed said, “Only an intelligence agency can smuggle in weapons and supply them to the protesters.”
Expressing gratitude to the Indian government for providing shelter to Sheikh Hasina, Sajeeb Wazed said, “I express my gratitude to the government of Narendra Modi (Prime Minister of India) for saving her (Sheikh Hasina’s) life and providing her with security.”
