BNP Standing Committee member Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain on Wednesday said that only the people of Bangladesh; not any individual, have the authority to forgive Awami League for “mass killings and atrocities” it committed.

Speaking to reporters after attending a programme at Jatiya Press Club, Zahid reacted strongly to a recent comment made by Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, who in an interview suggested that Awami League`s political activities could resume "anytime".

“The Chief Adviser’s remarks, especially about reopening Awami League’s activities, have raised serious questions in the public mind; including mine,” said Zahid, referring to Yunus’ interview with journalist Mehdi Hasan.

Zahid underscored that BNP has consistently stood against what it sees as a culture of impunity under Awami League government.

“Those responsible for genocide, crimes against humanity, enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings and the looting of national resources must be held accountable. Forgiveness is not a matter for any individual; it is for the people to decide,” he said.

He reiterated that Awami League, as a political entity, must unconditionally apologise to the people.

“Whether the people choose to forgive them is entirely up to them. No person, however respected, has the moral authority to pardon such crimes on behalf of the nation.”

The BNP leader also criticised any notion that the legitimacy of a party like Awami League; banned in the aftermath of the recent political transition, should be determined by legal or administrative processes.

“BNP believes that the ultimate authority lies with the people, not courts, government or any appointed official,” Zahid stated.

Zahid further said that those who committed or ordered atrocities; including former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, senior AL leaders, civil servants and members of the judiciary, must be held to account.

“Some went beyond their constitutional responsibilities. BNP has always demanded justice for such overreach.”

When asked whether BNP would feel threatened if Awami League were allowed to return to electoral politics, Zahid firmly rejected the notion.

“BNP and other pro-democracy forces are united. We are not afraid. If Sheikh Hasina had the courage of a true politician, she wouldn’t have fled to India,” he said.

Drawing a parallel to the fall of former military ruler HM Ershad in 1990, Zahid said history has shown that authoritarian leaders cannot escape accountability forever.

“We fought for democracy and are ready to face any challenge. The people of Bangladesh will give their verdict.”

Earlier, Zahid addressed a discussion organised by Azhar-Shafik Foundation at Jatiya Press Club to mark the International Day of Older Persons.