United News of Bangladesh

Almost three weeks after the BNP unveiled its list of potential contenders for 236 constituencies, a quiet unease is spreading among the party’s allies. What began as hopeful indications for a unified electoral strategy has now turned into growing frustration, as the long-expected seat-sharing negotiations show little sign of progress ahead of the national election. Leaders of alliance and like-minded parties said the uncertainty has left them confused, anxious, and unable to begin formal campaigning in their constituencies. They also feared that in many shared seats, BNP leaders might contest as independents, violating party decisions and risking the allies’ chances of winning. The alliance leaders said BNP should not only finalise seat-sharing promptly but also rein in its grassroots so that no one challenges the party’s decisions. Leaders from almost all allied parties said they are growing frustrated as time passes without any final decision.One senior leader said, “ BNP must understand that every single day is important for election preparation. We cannot sit idle while BNP candidates are already campaigning.” Several senior BNP leaders admitted to UNB that seat sharing has become very difficult, mainly because of the gap between the number of seats sought by alliance partners and the number BNP is willing to offer. They also noted that under the amended Representation of the People Order (RPO), partners must contest under their own election symbols, making the situation more complicated. According to BNP leaders, the party is ready to share at most 30 to 40 seats with allies, but the expectations of the allied parties are too high and do not match ground reality. One BNP Standing Committee member, speaking on condition of anonymity, told UNB, “We cannot take risks by giving too many seats. Our symbol, the Sheaf of Paddy, cannot be used by the partners. Many alliance parties have limited support on the ground. If they contest with their own symbols, their chances of winning will be low. We must be cautious.” The BNP leader also hinted their party may drop plans to share seats with NCP due to offensive comments against BNP and its leadership. “Our Standing Committee members discouraged our Acting Chairman about sharing seats with NCP at a recent meeting.” A leader from one of BNP’s allied parties said they feel “stuck”. Since BNP has already nominated candidates in most constituencies, many BNP aspirants have been holding rallies, going door-to-door, and campaigning in areas alliance partners want for themselves. “If BNP’s potential candidate is already asking for votes, how can we start campaigning?” said a senior leader of a small alliance party. “This will only create tension and confusion among voters.” Another allied leader said many voters are already identifying these constituencies with BNP’s Sheaf of Paddy symbol due to early campaigning. “If BNP later gives these seats to us, we will have to contest under our own symbols, which people may not recognise. It will be almost impossible to build a symbol’s identity in such a short time.” Mahmudur Rahman Manna, a top leader of Ganatantra Mancha and president of Nagorik Oikko, told UNB, “BNP has not engaged in formal talks about seat sharing. If we receive a proposal about who they are considering for which seat, we will discuss it. But until now, we know nothing.” He also said they understand BNP is taking time to put its own house in order before finalising the seat-sharing issue. “But at the same time, this delay is increasing our worries.” Shahadat Hossain Selim, spokesperson of the 12-party alliance and chairman of Bangladesh LDP, said BNP has already signalled some leaders about possible nominations, but nothing has been finalised. “Those seats which they intend to give should be announced officially as soon as possible for better coordination and preparation,” he said. Dr Mostafizur Rahman Iran, chairman of the Labour Party, said BNP has still not held a formal meeting over seat sharing, which is hampering preparations. He said he has been signalled to work in his home constituency of Pirojpur but has not receiving support from local BNP leaders, as his candidature is yet be formally announced. BNP joins pre-election dialogue with EC Iran said the Labour Party and other small parties applied to the Election Commission to allow contesting using their own or the alliance’s symbols. “It seems BNP is waiting for the EC’s decision. If accepted, BNP may be more generous in sharing seats with the alliance,” he said. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir told UNB that the party is seriously reviewing lists submitted by allies. “We will finalise seat sharing based on field realities, public acceptance, and the winnability of candidates. BNP Standing Committee member Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan said the alliance will not get as many seats this time as in 2018, and the party may offer 30 to 40 seats at most, especially as Jamaat-e-Islami is contesting separately. Another Standing Committee member, Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku, said seat sharing has not yet been finalised. “We may not be able to give every party the number of seats they want, but some seats will be allocated,” he said. He added that BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman is reviewing the matter and will make the final decision after discussions in the Standing Committee.  

Expressing profound sorrow over the loss of lives in Friday’s earthquake, BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman said the casualties and damage could have been reduced had proper precautionary measures been taken in advance. “A devastating earthquake today caused extensive damage to several high-rise buildings in the capital Dhaka and different parts of the country… I am deeply saddened by the casualties and the widespread destruction,” he said in a condolence message. Citing information received so far, the BNP leader said six people have lost their lives and more than two hundred have been injured. “I am deeply shocked by the loss of lives and the destruction caused by the powerful earthquake in Bangladesh.” He expressed solidarity with all those affected by this devastating natural disaster and conveyed his sympathy to them. The BNP leader prayed to Almighty Allah to grant patience and strength to the families of those killed and injured in the earthquake. “Had the government taken precautions in advance, it would have been possible to improve disaster management, protect people, and reduce losses,” he said. The BNP leader said the people of Bangladesh have always moved forward by overcoming various natural disasters with resilience.“I firmly believe they will also be able to recover from the damage caused by today’s earthquake. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) stands beside those affected by the earthquake,” he said. Tarique prayed for the eternal peace of the departed souls, conveyed his deepest condolences to the bereaved families, and wished a quick recovery for the injured. “May Almighty Allah protect us all.” In another condolence message, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir also expressed deep shock and sorrow over the loss of lives and damage to property. Khaleda meets Prof Yunus at Armed Forces Day reception “I express my condolences and sympathy to all the affected families. I pray to Almighty Allah that they find the strength and patience to cope with this difficult time,” he said. Fakhrul said the BNP will stand beside those affected by this disaster. “I pray for the eternal peace of those who lost their lives in the earthquake and convey my deepest sympathy to their bereaved families, and I wish a quick recovery for the injured.” Earlier in the morning, a 5.7-magnitude earthquake jolted Dhaka and other parts of Bangladesh, according to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD).  

BNP senior leader Professor AZM Zahid Hossain on Friday said the government must take urgent and immediate steps to protect people from the risk of earthquakes. “After experiencing this morning’s tremor, there is no reason to think we are safe,” he said while speaking at a discussion. Dr Zahid, a BNP Standing Committee member, said if the interim government does not take emergency measures now, the consequences could be serious, especially considering the fragile condition of many old buildings in Old Dhaka. “Think about the buildings in Old Dhaka, and then think about the earthquakes in Türkiye, Iran or Afghanistan.” Zahid said experts, including geological survey specialists, building designers, planners and other professionals, must work together with the government authorities for proper earthquake preparedness. “This is the right time. If we delay any further, the damage could be much worse. We should act now to reduce losses,” he said. The BNP leader also referred to the ongoing global climate conference in Brazil, saying major polluting countries were not responding properly to help reduce the impact of global warming on highly affected countries like Bangladesh. As a result, he said, the effects of climate change are already visible in Bangladesh. “You can see winters getting longer, summers becoming hotter, and low-lying areas going under water. Compare the climate and geopolitical situation of today with that of 20, 25 or 50 years ago — you can clearly see the change.” Jatiyatabadi Matsyajibi Dal (Dhaka North and South units) arranged the discussion, marking the National Revolution and Solidarity Day of historic November 7, 1975. Earlier on Friday morning, a 5.7-magnitude earthquake jolted Dhaka and other parts of Bangladesh, according to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD). The tremor occurred around 10:38am and lasted for about a minute. At that moment, when the earthquake struck, BNP leaders, activists and others attending the programme quickly rushed out of the Press Club auditorium out of fear. Dr Zahid expressed concern over the recent arson incidents reportedly carried out by members of the deposed Awami League. Powerful earthquake leaves five dead, scores injured across Bangladesh He said people still remember the arson attack in front of the Sheraton Hotel, where 11 people were burnt alive in a double-decker BRTC bus using gunpowder during a 174-day shutdown enforced by the Awami League. “Those who carried out those acts are now facing trial. Before the verdict in a case against them, they tried in many ways to create unrest and disorder in the country, and they have once again returned to the field with the same old arson violence,” the BNP leader said. He said the nation remained united after the August 5 mass uprising, but any division now would only help the cohorts of the “fallen and fugitive autocrat” “The autocrat may have fled, but her associates are still in the country. We must stay alert about the people around us and their behaviour,” Zahid cautioned. The BNP leader urged political parties to prepare to seek people’s mandate through the next national elections early next year.  

BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Thursday said the strong and decisive role of the Armed Forces has made the institution a symbol of the nation’s trust, expressing hope that this role will continue in the future. Tarique Rahman conveyed his message in a status posted on his verified Facebook page marking Armed Forces Day. “On the occasion of Armed Forces Day, I extend my sincere greetings and congratulations to all members of the Bangladesh Army, Navy and Air Force. I wish happiness, peace and well-being for all members of the Armed Forces and their families. On this day, I pray for the overall success, progress and development of the Armed Forces and for the eternal peace of the souls of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives during the Liberation War,” he said. In his message, Tarique said “The Armed Forces of Bangladesh were formed on November 21, 1971, in the midst of the Liberation War. Since then, the day has been observed every year as Armed Forces Day, in honour of the brave contributions of our military forces to the liberation struggle and victory,” he said. The Armed Forces are a proud national institution forged through fearless courage, valour and steadfast discipline. Their heroic role on the battlefields of 1971 remains a shining chapter in our history, said Tarique Rahman. “The patriotic members of the Armed Forces continue to serve as vigilant guardians of our independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity. Their contribution to global peacekeeping has strengthened Bangladesh’s international standing and earned wide appreciation. I hope this role will continue in the years ahead. The strong and timely role of the Armed Forces in times of natural disasters and emergencies has made the institution a symbol of national trust.,” he said. “The proclaimer of our independence, former President and former Chief of Army Staff Shaheed Ziaur Rahman, undertook and implemented extensive programmes to develop the Bangladesh Armed Forces into a modern, technology-based, dynamic and efficient force in line with global standards. He transformed the Armed Forces into a well-trained and professional institution. Since the time of Shaheed President Zia, our Armed Forces have evolved into a disciplined, agile and modern force comparable to those of any advanced nation,” he added. Trivial argument turns fatal: BNP leader killed in Sylhet “During her tenure as Prime Minister, Begum Khaleda Zia further strengthened and modernised the Armed Forces, enabling them to make significant contributions internationally. Our efforts to advance the Armed Forces will continue,” said the BNP leader. He also wished complete success for all programmes marking Armed Forces Day.  

BNP standing committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has said that journalists will be able to practise freer and more independent journalism if BNP forms the next government, reaffirming that the party has always stood for media freedom. “Ziaur Rahman broke the idea of Baksal’s four-state media outlets and created the first environment for journalists to work independently. Today’s journalism in Bangladesh stands on that foundation,” he said. Speaking at a discussion organised at the Jatiya Press Club on Thursday, Khosru said that BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman is also a strong advocate of independent journalism. “BNP has the mindset to accept any form of criticism. After August 5, a cartoon was drawn about Tarique Rahman. His response was that such freedom of journalists is the very reason we fought to end authoritarianism. That small statement is enough to understand BNP’s position on press freedom,” he said. He said BNP plans and ensures a question–answer session for journalists at every programme because the party wants politicians to always face accountability. Expressing concern over the upcoming national election, Khosru said, “There is an effort to derail the election, but the BNP is moving forward like a skilled navigator. There will be no scope to sabotage the polls.” He alleged that the current government has no connection with the people. “For 14–15 months, the country has been run by an unelected government. The bridge that should naturally exist between a government and the people simply does not exist here. The fears of the last 14–15 years have now taken a new form.” Khosru said the BNP does not indulge in empty political rhetoric. “People no longer want rhetoric; they want credible commitments. BNP will not give the people unrealistic promises.” Pointing to what he called ongoing smear campaigns against the BNP, he said the party is responding with democratic patience. “The language used to attack BNP is extremely low. If BNP responds, it would have to come down to that level — and BNP will not descend that low.” Comparing Ziaur Rahman to global historical leaders, Khosru said, “His comparison can be made with America’s George Washington. The qualities Washington demonstrated in war and governance — all of those existed in Ziaur Rahman. I am certain his name would be among the world’s top four or five political leaders.” He also said BNP aims to deliver not just political democracy but economic democracy so that the core benefits of democracy reach people.

Every future investment will be made in strict adherence to economic standards to ensure that taxpayers’ money is used for public welfare, BNP Standing Committee Member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury said on Thursday. Khosru said that investments must be carefully evaluated, speaking at an event titled “Free Medical Services and Health Check-up Camp 2025” at Dhaka University. “We must move away from the culture of investing solely for the purpose of looting public funds. From now on, every investment must take public welfare into account,” he said. “If the BNP gets the opportunity to run the country, we will assess the return on investment, how welfare-oriented it is, and what environmental impact it may have—only then will we invest,” he added. Expressing disappointment over the state of healthcare facilities at Dhaka University, Khosru noted, “It is unfortunate that such a large university campus does not even have a pharmacy. This alone shows how indifferent universities are regarding healthcare.” He said the BNP plans to allocate up to 5 percent of GDP for the health and education sectors. “Health is a fundamental need. There is no scope to ignore it,” he said. Outlining the party’s health-sector priorities, Khosru said that if the BNP comes to power, preventive healthcare will be addressed first, followed by primary healthcare services. “Families spend Tk 5,000–10,000 every month on primary healthcare alone. To reduce this burden, primary healthcare will be made free for all citizens,” he added. Regarding the BNP’s promise of creating one crore (10 million) jobs within 18 months, Amir Khosru said the initiative involves extensive planning, training and monitoring. “People say we are ambitious. Yes, we are highly ambitious. Without ambition, a country cannot move forward,” he said.

BNP Standing Committee Member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury on Thursday said that only a caretaker government can ensure a free and fair national election, welcoming the restoration of the system as a positive development. Speaking to reporters after an event at Dhaka University on Thursday morning, Khosru said elections held under caretaker administrations in the past were “comparatively more acceptable,” adding that any limitations in the system could be resolved through reforms. “The most important thing is that there is a national consensus on the caretaker government. People have confidence in elections conducted under such a non-elected administration,” he said. On concerns over who should lead the caretaker government, the BNP leader said disagreements could be settled through dialogue. “Its limitations, characteristics and structure can all be finalised through discussions,” he added. Bangladesh's top court reinstates caretaker government system in Constitution Regarding the ongoing programmes of Jamaat-e-Islami and its eight Islamist allies, Khasru said their activities were their own political decisions. “There will always be differing opinions in a democracy. Tolerance is the beauty of democratic practice.” Asked about the National Citizen Party (NCP) wanting to nominate candidates who were not nominated by the BNP, Khosru said each political party has its own strategies. “BNP has nothing to say about this. But everyone should follow proper political norms.” He said the country needs an elected government to carry out essential national tasks. “People want elections now. They are eagerly waiting for it,” he added.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Thursday said Bangladesh cannot move forward unless women feel safe both online and offline, calling for urgent national actions to protect and empower women in the digital age. “Women must feel safe. Both online and offline, at home and in public, in their personal lives and in their professional journeys,” he  he said in a post on his varifed Facebook page.  Tarique shared the message on his 61st birthday, posting it along with a photograph of himself with his wife Dr Zubaida Rahman and their only daughter Zaima Rahman. “It is undeniable that the digital world now shapes every part of our lives, from our daily routines to the way nations engage on the global stage. The speed at which technology has transformed both the world and Bangladesh is something none of us can ignore,” he said. Tarique said he and his wife often reflect on how different today’s world is for their daughter compared to the one they grew up in. “And like many parents and concerned citizens, we feel both hope and worry. The opportunities are greater than ever, but so are the threats.” “If Bangladesh is to move forward, our daughters, mothers, sisters, and colleagues cannot continue to live with fear,” he observed.  The BNP leader said every day, too many women face harassment, intimidation, bullying, and violence simply for speaking, working, studying, or trying to live freely. “This is not the Bangladesh we dream of. And it is not the future our young girls deserve.” He called for a national online safety system to allow women to report cyberbullying, threats, impersonation and leaked information quickly and easily.  “This would include a 24/7 hotline, an online portal and trained responders, while partnerships with major digital platforms could help ensure faster removal of abusive content in Bangla,” Tarique said.  Tarique Rahman calls for childcare plan to empower women He also emphasised the need for strong protection measures for women in public life, including journalists, students, activists and community leaders.  Tarique said no woman should be pushed out of public participation because of fear. The BNP leader wrote that digital safety education should be introduced in schools and universities so young people can navigate the online space with confidence. Trained teachers could act as “safety focal points”, supported by nationwide campaigns to raise awareness. At the community level, he said, safer transport routes, better street lighting, help desks and trauma-sensitive responders could make everyday life more secure for women. Tarique also called for a nationwide effort to increase women’s leadership by expanding mentoring networks, providing leadership training and improving access to childcare in workplaces, schools and offices.  “When women rise, the nation rises with them,” Tarique said, adding, "Whatever our politics, religion, ethnicity, or gender, one truth must unite us as Bangladeshis: A Bangladesh where women are safe, supported, and empowered is an unstoppable Bangladesh.Let us work together to make that future a reality, for our daughters, and for the generations yet to come,” he said.    

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has dismissed widespread social media speculation claiming that popular Islamic scholar Dr Mizanur Rahman Azhari has been nominated as the party’s candidate for Dhaka-5 (Jatrabari–Demra) in the upcoming national election. Rumours circulated from Wednesday afternoon through various Facebook posts and informal online channels suggesting that Azhari had replaced Jamaat’s previously declared candidate, Mohammad Kamal Hossain. The posts quickly gained traction, prompting many users to congratulate the preacher. However, Jamaat clarified that no such decision had been made. In a statement posted on the Jamaat Dhaka City South’s official Facebook page, the party said none of its previously nominated candidates in the region had been changed. The post reaffirmed the existing candidates— Syed Zainul Abedin for Dhaka-4, Mohammad Kamal Hossain for Dhaka-5, Dr Md Abdul Mannan for Dhaka-6, Hafiz Enayetullah for Dhaka-7, Dr Md Helal Uddin for Dhaka-8, Kabir Ahmed for Dhaka-9 and Md Jasim Uddin Sarkar for Dhaka-10. Speaking to reporters on Wednesday evening, Ehsan Mahbub Zubair, Jamaat’s Assistant Secretary General and head of its media wing, termed the claim about Azhari’s nomination “a rumour,” adding that there is “no possibility” of such a move. He urged the public to stay alert against misinformation and refrain from accepting or sharing any political-related claims without proper verification.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, along with seven other political parties, on Wednesday, has reaffirmed its demand for a referendum before national elections and announced a series of rallies in divisional cities across the country. The parties said they will organize rallies from November 30 to December 6, excluding Dhaka, to press for a referendum before the elections, creation of a level playing field, and other demands. The announcement came after a liaison committee meeting of the eight parties at the central office of Bangladesh Khilafat Majlis in Paltan, Dhaka. The briefing was led by senior Naeb Amir of Bangladesh Khilafat Majlis, Maulana Yusuf Ashraf. The eight parties participating in the movement include Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, Islami Andolan Bangladesh, Bangladesh Khilafat Majlis, Khilafat Majlis, Nezame Islam Party, Bangladesh Khilafat Andolan, Bangladesh Development Party, and Jatiya Ganatantrik Party. Under the announced schedule, rallies will be held in Rangpur on November 30, Rajshahi on December 1, Khulna on December 2, Barisal on December 3, Mymensingh on December 4, Sylhet on December 5, and Chattogram on December 6. Senior leaders from the eight parties will address each rally. Newly appointed French Ambassador meets Jamaat Ameer Maulana Yusuf Ashraf said the alliance continues to insist on holding the referendum on a separate day and will campaign for public support to vote “Yes.” He added that while some demands, including implementing the death sentence verdict in the case of crimes against humanity and the July Charter’s orders, have been partially met, other demands—such as prosecuting other perpetrators of the July killings, banning anti-democratic forces including the Jatiya Party, and ensuring a level playing field in elections—remain unmet. Assistant Secretary General of Jamaat-e-Islami and liaison committee member Hamidur Rahman Azad, present at the briefing, emphasized that the alliance has not withdrawn its demands and urged the government to reconsider holding a referendum before the elections. He noted that their visit to the Election Commission earlier yielded no clear response, reflecting uncertainty about how the government plans to conduct both votes on the same day. Since September 18, the eight-party alliance has been pursuing a joint movement with five key demands and previously carried out nationwide programs in six phases. This latest announcement marks the seventh phase of their campaign.