Speaking at the ‘July Rally’ organized by the Bangladesh Labor Party at Abdus Salam Hall of the National Press Club on Sunday, Nazrul Islam called for the immediate restoration of voting rights and fundamental freedoms.

“On August 3, we succeeded in ending fascism through the united strength of the people. But democracy has not yet arrived. The most urgent demand now is to restore the people’s right to vote and their constitutional rights—rights that have been suspended for far too long,” he said.

He highlighted the BNP’s 31-point proposal for state reform, which he described as the most comprehensive and well-structured roadmap for institutional transformation.

“No other political party has put forward such a clear and coherent reform agenda. Now, various new proposals are emerging outside the official Reform Commission—many of which seem designed to delay the process. Some are using this time to reorganize; others to build alliances. But should the people continue to pay the price?”

Nazrul Islam emphasized that the groundwork for elections is already in place.

“The Election Commission is updating the voter list. The Reform Commission and the Consensus Commission have nearly completed their tasks. There is no valid reason to postpone elections any further.”

He reiterated the BNP’s demand for justice for victims of enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and state violence during the previous government.

“We have called for a speedy trial tribunal to ensure fair and impartial justice. But some are stalling under political pretexts. We remain firm: the corrupt and the perpetrators of state crimes must be held accountable—without bias and without delay.”

Fellow BNP leader Begum Selima Rahman said the July 24 mass uprising was a people’s movement led by students and youth against 15 years of authoritarian rule.

“Leadership is not claimed—it is earned through action and sacrifice. If the interim government fulfills the commitments made in February, the people will finally regain their democratic rights,” she said.

The rally was chaired by Bangladesh Labor Party Chairman Mostafizur Rahman Iran.