Dhaka, Sept. 14 -- National Consensus Commission Vice President Professor Ali Riaz has cautioned that postponing the next parliamentary election beyond February could trigger internal instability and jeopardize Bangladesh's national security.

Speaking at a roundtable discussion titled "The Path to Political Consensus for Elections," hosted by Prothom Alo in Dhaka on Saturday, Riaz underscored the urgent need for political parties to conclude negotiations and commit to a timeline.

"I have repeatedly urged political parties to respond, and they have to a certain extent. But at some point, the process must end; it cannot continue indefinitely," Riaz told the gathering. "If elections are not held in February, Bangladesh will face not only i...