United News of Bangladesh

Leaders and activists of BNP have gathered at Noor Hossain square at Zero Point and Awami League central office at Gulistan, aiming to thwart Awami League’s bid to hold a rally marking Noor Hossain Day. Leaders and activists of the party started to gather in front of Awami League office at 10 am and then marched towards Noor Hossain square at Bangabandhu Avenue around 10:30 am. They again returned to AL office with big processions and were chanting various anti-Awami League slogans. Earlier, the Awami League announced a demonstration programme at Shaheed Noor Hossain Square at Zero Point at 3 pm on Sunday demanding 'removal of undemocratic forces and restoration of democratic system’. Soon after their announcement, Anti-discrimination student movement called for a mass gathering programme at Zero Point in Gulistan at 12 noon on Sunday.

The Awami League has issued eight-point directives to party activists ahead of Sunday’s scheduled programme marking the Shaeed Noor Hossain Day in Dhaka’s Gulistan area. The party, ousted from power on August 5 in a mass movement, shared the instructions on its verified Facebook page on Sunday morning. It urged the activists to observe the programme peacefully avoiding any trap of sabotage. "If anyone is detained by the police, RAB, or the army, we will chant "Joy Bangla" in unison, and everyone nearby will go to rescue them. Under no circumstances should you keep any information (party related) on your mobile phone," according to the directives. It also said "Save the names of familiar associates after different names in your mobile phone. Stay in contact with each other and communicate using code words." The directives also include where gatherings are planned, movement in small groups. "If there is resistance, remind the police whose side they are on—those who have killed you (police) by hanging on the streets? And finally do not get locked into any arguments or debates with the army as they won’t obstruct processions or meetings," said the directives.

Singapore's non-resident High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Derek Loh, met BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and discussed various issues related to bilateral relations, trade and investment. The hour-long meeting, which began around 9:30 pm, was held at the BNP Chairperson’s office in Gulshan. BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, party leaders Dr Enamul Haque Chowdhury and Shama Obed, along with Mitchel Lee, Charge d' Affaires at the Singapore High Commission in Dhaka and Rahul Abraham, Desk Officer at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Singapore, were present at the meeting. Briefing reporters after the meeting, Khosru said the discussions covered a range of issues of mutual interests between the two countries. "They have told us that they believe it would be more convenient for them to make decisions regarding economic activity and investment in Bangladesh if there is an elected government," he said. Khosru said most countries prefer an elected government in Bangladesh when making decisions on long-term investments. He said the meeting also focused on how Bangladesh could send more skilled workers to Singapore. Khosru said the Singaporean envoy highlighted a significant demand for nurses in his country, and suggested that Bangladesh could send qualified nurses to help meet that need. He said Singapore is also keen to invest in various institutions in Bangladesh to train and produce skilled workers who would contribute to Bangladesh’s economy and could also work in Singapore if necessary. The BNP leader also mentioned that Singapore is interested in cooperating with Bangladesh to improve the efficiency of its ports. He also said Singapore is eager to collaborate on the development of Bangladesh’s health, education, shipbuilding, and financial sectors. Khosru said Singapore is also ready to work with Bangladesh on renewable and waste energy and waste management initiatives. The Singaporean envoy, according to Khosru, expressed interest in having a BNP delegation visit Singapore to discuss further the issues of bilateral cooperation. Replying to a question, he said the Awami League is attempting to make a comeback through various covert means, including using the photos of US President-elect Donald Trump, as it has become politically bankrupt. In response to another question, he mentioned that some arrangements for Khaleda Zia’s trip abroad are still not completed. Once those are completed, she will soon travel abroad for treatment.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Saturday said a democratic system, ensuring people’s right to vote, must be established to address the country’s problems and resist all forms of conspiracy against the nation. Speaking at a training programme of Jatiyatabadi Krishak Dal, he also announced that if his party returns to power, they will re-launch the canal digging programme initiated by BNP founder Ziaur Rahman in the late 1970s to address farmers' water crises and boost agricultural production in an effort to reduce food imports. “The conspiracies against the country, its people, and the nationalist forces have not stopped. The nationalist forces must alert everyone, including those in rural areas, and convey the message that the problems in all sectors cannot be resolved until we establish a democratic system,” the BNP leader said. Tarique said people are getting to know about the plots to some extent through various news reports in newspapers, on social media, and even through telephone conversations. He also said without true representatives accountable to people, it will not be possible to control the market or eliminate business syndicates. "In the same way, it will be impossible to develop any sector of the country, from education to industry, or to contain corruption, or achieve any positive progress without a democratic system." Tarique urged the nationalist forces also to convey a message to the people, even at the union level, that the voting rights of citizens must be safeguarded at all costs. “You must tell the people that, regardless of which party’s politics they support or who they wish to vote for, their voting rights must be ensured. There’s no compromise with it” He also said no more sham elections or voting at night should be allowed in Bangladesh. “Voting must take place in daylight. There should be the freedom to vote for anyone you choose, and the freedom to vote safely. No one should be allowed to disturb and intimidate others.” The BNP leader said the election must be held in a fair and neutral manner without any fear. “If we can ensure this, we will gradually be able to ease the problems facing the country and its people.” The BNP leader also said that people's right to franchise must be restored to thwart all forms of plots. Democracy, voting rights key to solving national issues: Tarique Jatiyatabadi Krishak Dal organised the day-long programme at the Institution of Diploma Engineers, Bangladesh.  It has decided to hold farmers' rallies at the union level for the next three months. Tarique shared his party's future plans to improve the agriculture sector, enhance facilities for farmers, and take effective steps to increase all forms of agricultural production in order to keep commodity prices within the purchasing power of the common people. He also said Krishak Dal, the peasant wing of BNP, will be strengthened by involving more genuine farmers in the future." Tarique said BNP will try to resolve the problems the farmers are facing if it comes to power. He said BNP founder Ziaur Rahman’s canal digging programme, which effectively helped increase crop production, would be revived. “Farmers face water shortage for crop production. If BNP forms the government in the future, the canal digging programme will be restarted.” The BNP leader said this programme will address the farmers’ water crisis, help create water reservoirs, and reduce the reliance on underground water. Stating that the country’s population has now reached nearly 20 crore, Tarique emphasised that agriculture must be prioritised to produce food for such a large population. “It is not feasible to import food for so many people. So, basic food must be produced within the country. We need to consider how to expand agricultural land. There are certain measures we can take to increase agricultural land, but this will only be possible if we return to power,” he said. He also said a significant portion of women, including in the rural areas of Bangladesh, are involved in agriculture. “So, greater attention must be given to the agricultural sector.” Referring to the issue of farmers' seeds crisis, the BNP leader said, "We have considered agricultural insurance because crops are often damaged by natural disasters." He also said if a people's government is established, they will take many other steps to develop the agricultural sector, including the establishment of agro-based industries and the introduction of cooperative agriculture.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Saturday expressed concerns, saying that the associates of fascists have started resurfacing due to the negative discourses among democratic forces. "One thing to note is that the fascists have started raising their heads again due to various negative statements and discourses. Unfortunately, some of our media are promoting this, which I believe, will bring no good for people in any way," he said. The BNP leader made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a function titled 'Bangladesh Youth Parliament-2024' organised by the National Youth Forum at the auditorium of the Supreme Court Bar Association. He urged the media and those conducting negative campaigns to refrain from such actions. “I also urge the youth to take a stand and work to stop this trend.” Fakhrul said that the only way to overcome the crisis facing the nation is through patience, the completion of necessary state reforms and holding a fair and credible election. He said everyone should remember one thing that the nation must not miss the opportunity now created through the student-led mass uprising to rebuild the state. “If this opportunity is lost, our very existence as a nation will be endangered. I want to emphasise this point.” The BNP leader also said that the interim government, which is currently responsible for running the state, has been endorsed by all quarters, including students and politicians. “We entrusted them with this responsibility with the hope that they would clean up the mess created by the Awami League over the past 16 years and organise a credible election. Through that election, we can build the new Bangladesh that the youth aspire to,” he said. Fakhrul said they are repeatedly talking about the election because they believe no reform initiative can succeed without the active participation of the people. “Such participation is only possible through an elected parliament.” Democracy, voting rights key to solving national issues: Tarique He also said if parliament can be made effective, it will be possible to ensure democratic culture and practice in the country. “Our main problem is that, due to the lack of democratic practices in Bangladesh, a democratic culture has not developed. As a result, an autocratic and authoritarian mindset has taken root in everyone. We become intolerant very quickly, but democracy requires tolerance and the ability to accept dissenting views,” the BNP leader observed. He also said the nation must give the interim government time to fulfill the responsibilities it has been entrusted with. “They’re working… I’m surprised that many in the media fail to recognise any success of this government." During its three-month tenure, Fakhrul said there is no denying the interim government has accomplished a lot. “They have set up reform commissions, changed laws, and arrested several associates of fascism. Steps have been taken to put them on trial… Everything is not possible at once.” He urged young people, in particular, to be patient, as he believes that those who are leading this government, along with student leaders being able to meet people’s expectations. Zonayed Saki, chief coordinator of Ganosamhati Andolon, said it is now a challenge for politicians to realise the dreams and desires of the youth, for which they sacrificed so much, including blood, during the student-led mass movement to free the country from fascism. He stressed the need for state reforms to ensure a balance of power and prevent the resurgence of fascism. Saki also said that the youth must play a crucial role in keeping the country on the right track of democracy and safeguarding the rights of people.

A new political conspiracy is unfolding around the next election, Secretary General of Jamaat-e-Islami, Professor Mia Golam Parwar, said on Friday. The Jamaat leader alleged that various factions are plotting behind the scenes to destabilize the country. While addressing the District Rukon Conference at Darshana Auditorium in Chuadanga on Friday afternoon, Parwar criticized ongoing political maneuvers, particularly discussions about compromising with the fascist Awami League. He reminded all of the sacrifices made by the martyrs and their families, emphasizing that their pain had not been forgotten. Parwar claimed there is an increasing sense of betrayal in the political landscape, accusing certain individuals and groups of engaging in dangerous games. He called on patriotic citizens, the army, and students to remain vigilant against the conspiracy. “We should assist the interim government in building a new state,” Parwar said, adding that the current government faces numerous challenges. He accused the Awami League of attempting to stoke communal violence and disrupting the political process. Jamaat Ameer pledges to establish justice without discrimination The Jamaat leader also alleged that former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is engaging in anti-national activities from abroad. He referred to the spreading of misinformation through audio and video messages, claiming some of these communications falsely suggest that Hasina could return to the country at any time or that the situation must be settled by December. Criticizing Awami League leadership, Parwar said, “The people of Bangladesh will not allow a cruel and barbaric ruler who has carried out murders and violence to remain in power. They have no moral right to participate in the elections.” In his remarks, Parwar further labeled Sheikh Hasina not only as a fascist but a "sadist," accusing her of taking pleasure in the suffering, pain, and deaths of innocent people. He referred to her as "the master of all murders" and "the greatest sadist in history." Among others, Chuadanga district Jamaat Ameer Adv Ruhul Amin, Jashore-Kushtia regional director Mubarak Hossain, and Meherpur district Ameer Taj Uddin Khan were also present. District Jamaat Nayeb-e-Ameer Azizur Rahman delivered the opening remarks, while district Jamaat Secretary Adv Asaduzzaman moderated the programme.

Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, on Friday pledged to establish a justice system free from discrimination in the country, while sharply criticizing the former Awami League government for years of oppression and injustice. Speaking at a meeting with Jamaat activists in Nilphamari town, Dr. Rahman said, “They (Awami League) made a mockery of justice and perpetuated injustice. But the same thing should not happen towards Sheikh Hasina and any of her allies.” He alleged that Jamaat-e-Islami had been the most targeted group under the Awami League government, with party offices across the country, including its central office, forcibly shut down. “Our activists could not live in peace even in their homes. They are abducted and falsely accused of sedition,” he said. “Top Jamaat leaders were killed in the name of justice on false and fabricated charges of war crimes.” “The fascist Awami League deprived the people of peace. Citizens from all backgrounds have faced oppression, and the country’s stability had been shattered,” the Jamaat chief said. Bury political divisions for greater national interests: Jamaat Ameer Referring to Sheikh Hasina, Dr. Rahman said, “She said she wouldn’t run away, but she fled to her beloved country.” While refraining from directly naming India, he emphasized, “We respect our neighbors and do not believe in creating hostility. But we also expect reciprocal respect and good neighborly behavior.” He called on India to cooperate with Bangladesh’s judiciary. “Sheikh Hasina faces over 150 charges in Bangladesh. If requested by our courts, we urge our neighbors to hand her over,” he said. Outlining Jamaat’s vision for governance, Dr. Rahman promised a corruption-free administration. “We will not take bribes. We will not let anyone do so,” he asserted. Addressing party leaders and activists, he likened their role to that of guardians of society. “We will stand vigilant so that the nation can sleep peacefully,” he said. On women’s role in society, the Jamaat Ameer said they want to build a Bangladesh where women can contribute to social development and nation-building with dignity through safety. Jamaat central leaders Moulana Abdul Halim and Moulana Mamataz Uddin, among others, spoke at the function presided over by Jamaat Nilphamari district Ameer Principal Abdus Sattar.

BNP brought out a massive colourful rally in the capital today (Friday), marking ‘National Revolution and Solidarity Day’. Tens of thousands of leaders and activists of BNP and its associate bodies, wearing colourful caps, assembled at Nayapaltan since noon, prepared to participate in a large-scale showdown. Streets and alleys from Kakrail Mosque to Fakirerpool and adjoining areas were packed with BNP supporters, causing traffic disruption in the areas. After a brief address, party’s acting chairman, Tarique Rahman formally inaugurated the rally around 3:32pm. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir also spoke at the gathering. It will proceed towards Manik Mia Avenue, passing through Kakrail intersection, Kakrail Mosque, Matsya Bhaban, the Engineering Institute, Shahbagh, Hotel Intercontinental, Bangla Motor, Karwan Bazar, and Farmgate. The event will conclude with a virtual address by the party’s acting chairman, Tarique Rahman, at Manik Mia Avenue. Carrying banners, festoons, placards, and portraits of the party’s top leaders, BNP activists are chanting slogans demanding elections and the withdrawal of cases against senior party leaders, including Tarique Rahman. BNP observed ‘National Revolution and Solidarity Day’ on Thursday, commemorating the ‘civil-military uprising’ of 7 November 1975. BNP ready for a massive showdown in Dhaka On November 7, 1975, amid political unrest, soldiers and civilians jointly freed then Chief of Army Staff Ziaur Rahman from confinement in Dhaka Cantonment, paving the way for his ascent to power.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Friday urged the interim government to take effective steps to meet the expectations of people in order to foil any plots by evil forces.                          “I want to warn the freedom-loving people of one thing, and I myself also want to remain alert that the conspiracy of the anti-democratic evil forces has not stopped yet against the interim government, he said virtually from London to a mammoth gathering at Nayapaltan. The BNP leader said the associates of the deposed Awami League regime are still active in the country’s administration, in different positions, as well as abroad, to undermine the Dr Muhammad Yunus-led government. He renewed his party’s support for the interim government, saying this administration can never be allowed to fail. “But, if the interim government wants to keep itself alert, it must take effective steps to fulfil the expectations of people. It is now the demand of people,” Tarique said. He congratulated the people of the country and the students for ending fascism through a successful popular uprising. "The 7th November, 1975 was the day to distinguish between friends and foes of Bangladesh, while 5th August 2024 was the day to identify the enemies of Bangladesh," Tarique said. He also said as long as the pro-Bangladesh forces remain united, no one will be able to undermine the country's independence. The BNP leader said their rally is not aimed at raising a storm of protests against anyone, but rather a procession to safeguard the country’s interests and the voting and other rights of people. “This procession of millions on the streets is a march of resolve to build a just, democratic and humane Bangladesh as envisioned by countless students, citizens, and martyrs as well as those who were injured in the anti-fascist movement,” he observed. Tarique emphasised that it is crucial for every citizen to elect their representatives through their votes to ensure that fascism never returns to Bangladesh.  “As long as those aspiring to become representatives, from local governments to the central government, won’t remain dependent on the people’s vote, the people will not be able to fully enjoy the benefits of democracy,” he said. Even in an environment free from autocracy or fascism, Tarique said it will be impossible to free low-income people from the curse of market syndicates unless their right to elect their representatives through direct voting is guaranteed. “Let us ensure that this massive procession does not go in vain. With this expectation, I declare the auspicious inauguration of this rally,” the BNP leader said. Addressing the programme, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Alamgir said that although Sheikh Hasina fled the country during the uprising, her cohorts are still lurking everywhere, ready to harm Bangladesh in various ways. He said the nefarious efforts to destroy Bangladesh must be resisted by strengthening national unity. “No dictator will be allowed to strip the people of their rights again. Let us unite and ensure that only democracy will prevail in Bangladesh,” he declared. Later, the party brought out a massive colourful rally in the capital around 3:32pm, marking ‘National Revolution and Solidarity Day’. It proceeded towards Manik Mia Avenue, passing through Kakrail intersection, Kakrail Mosque, Matsya Bhaban, the Engineering Institute, Shahbagh, Hotel Intercontinental, Bangla Motor, Karwan Bazar, and Farmgate. Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir concluded the rally with a brief address at Manik Mia Avenue at around 6:30pm. Earlier, tens of thousands of leaders and activists of BNP and its associate bodies, many of them wearing colourful caps, assembled at Nayapaltan since noon, prepared to participate in a large-scale showdown. Streets and alleys from Kakrail Mosque to Fakirerpool and adjoining areas were packed with BNP supporters, causing traffic disruption in the area. Carrying banners, festoons, placards, and portraits of the party’s top leaders, BNP activists chanted slogans demanding elections and the withdrawal of cases against senior party leaders, including Tarique Rahman. BNP observed ‘National Revolution and Solidarity Day’ on Thursday, commemorating the ‘civil-military uprising’ of 7 November 1975. On November 7, 1975, amid political unrest, soldiers and civilians jointly freed then Chief of Army Staff Ziaur Rahman from confinement in Dhaka Cantonment, paving the way for his ascent to power.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General Professor Mia Golam Parwar has demanded that the national parliamentary elections be held within a reasonable timeframe.“Our demand is for a reasonable timeframe for the election,” he said.The Jamaat leader made the remark on Friday morning while answering questions from journalists after the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Kushtia district branch members’ (Rukan) conference, held at the Abdul Wahid Hall Room of Haji Shariat Ullah Orphanage along the Kushtia-Rajbari Highway.He also mentioned that as soon as the election schedule is announced, Jamaat-e-Islami will publish its election manifesto.The conference was chaired by Kushtia district Jamaat Ameer Professor Abul Hashem and conducted by Kushtia District Secretary Suja Uddin Joarder.