United News of Bangladesh

Leaders and activists of District and Upazila units of Juba Dal in Patuakhali on Sunday blocked the path of BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi by wrapping themselves in shrouds. They were out there protesting the expulsion of former Patuakhali District Juba Dal vice-president and former Sadar Upazila convener Md Rimanul Islam Rimu. Rizvi was visiting the Kazirhat Bridge area in Sadar Upazila to provide financial assistance to a helpless family on behalf of BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman when the protesters took position on the road. Lying down in shrouds, they chanted slogans demanding that the expulsion order against Rimu be withdrawn.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Sunday urged the authorities to ensure full justice as the International Crimes Tribunal is set to deliver its verdict on Monday in the case against ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and two others. In a post on his verified Facebook page, Fakhrul said, “Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal is going to announce the verdict tomorrow (Monday) in the case against Sheikh Hasina, in which five charges of crimes against humanity have been brought over the deadly violence and repression that occurred in Dhaka last year.” “We demand full justice! Bangladesh deserves a transparent and fair trial,” he writes. BTV to broadcast live verdict on Hasina in July Uprising case Earlier in the day, speaking at a discussion at the Jatiya Press Club, Fakhrul urged people and political parties to resist the ‘vested quarters’ that, he alleged, are trying to create anarchy ahead of Monday’s verdict in the case filed against ‘fascist Sheikh Hasina for committing genocide’. “The verdict in the trial over the genocide committed by fascist Hasina will be delivered tomorrow (Monday). Extreme uncertainty and fear are now prevailing across the entire country because of this,” Fakhrul said. He also said a vested quarter is conspiring to use this moment to push Bangladesh back into chaos. “We must stand firm and resist them,” he added. ICT sets Nov 17 to deliver verdict on Hasina case The BNP leader said the country’s people, particularly the students, have created an opportunity to restore democracy and people’s rights. “We must not waste this opportunity. We have to work to make the path towards democratic transition easier.” The International Crimes Tribunal-1 (ICT-1) is set to deliver its verdict on Monday in the case against deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her two top aides, who face five counts of alleged crimes against humanity linked to last year’s deadly student-led uprising in Dhaka during July–August.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Sunday said great national leader Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhasani will always remain a source of inspiration for the nation in securing the just rights of the helpless and in protecting democracy, human rights, freedom and sovereignty. “His immense patriotism, unwavering commitment to national interest, and courage to stand against enemies of democracy and humanity will inspire us for generations to come,” he said. The BNP leader made the remarks in a message issued on the occasion of Maulana Bhasani’s 49th death anniversary, which will be observed across the country with due respect on Monday. He recalled Bhasani’s role in anti-colonial movements, the fight for the rights of farmers and workers, and his contributions to the country’s independence and democratic movements. “On the occasion of the death anniversary of Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhasani, the leader of the downtrodden, I pay my deep respects to his memory and pray for the salvation of his departed soul,” the BNP leader said. He said Maulana Bhasani is an unforgettable and significant name in national history. From the anti-British movement to broader struggles across the subcontinent, Tarique said this iconic leader stood firmly and courageously for the oppressed and persecuted, becoming a powerful voice against imperialism, colonialism and all forms of domination. “Maulana Bhasani will always be remembered as a guide on the path to the nation’s liberation. He was a shining luminary in Bangladesh’s independence movement, in democratic struggles, and in the fight for the just rights of farmers, workers, and the toiling masses,” he observed. The BNP leader said Bhasani’s stance was always against exploitation and in favour of the exploited, and through his fearless and decisive leadership, he continuously inspired the people of this country to stand up for their rights. “His thunderous voice shook the thrones of oppressive rulers and exploitative forces. In the nation’s darkest times, he stood firmly for the public interest, earning the trust and confidence of the people,” he said. In another message, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir also paid tribute to the late leader and sought blessings for his departed soul. He said Maulana Bhasani was a strong voice for the oppressed people of Asia, Africa, and Latin America, and a fearless advocate for the rights of the deprived. Calling him a ‘friend of the downtrodden’, Fakhrul said Bhasani consistently protested against imperialism, authoritarianism, and exploitation. “At a time when the nation faces direct and indirect aggression against its environment, culture, and identity, the path shown by Maulana Bhasani remains our guiding light,” he added. Fakhrul urged all to dedicate themselves to the welfare of the nation by being inspired by Bhasani’s ideals of patriotism, justice, and humanity.

Eight like-minded political parties, including Jamaat-e-Islami and Islami Andolon, on Sunday urged citizens to vote ‘Yes’ in the upcoming referendum, expressing concern over public confusion after the government announced a national parliamentary election and a referendum on the same day. The parties, now united in a joint movement for five-point reform, called on the government to resolve the uncertainty and ensure a smooth process. Speaking at a press conference at Al-Falah Auditorium in Moghbazar, Jamaat Secretary General Mia Golam Parwar, representing the eight-party alliance, said, “The date of the referendum should have been announced before the national election to give legal validity to the proposed reforms. The failure to do so has created confusion, and it is the government’s responsibility to address this.” He said the top leaders of all eight parties had agreed to support the reforms in the referendum and would actively encourage a ‘Yes’ vote. Earlier, a joint meeting of the top leaders of the eight parties was held at the same venue, chaired by Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman. Participants included leaders from Islami Andolan Bangladesh, Bangladesh Khilafat Majlis, Bangladesh Nizam-e-Islam Party, National Democratic Party (JAGPA), Bangladesh Development Party and Bangladesh Khilafat Andolan. The leaders discussed the political situation and strategies to implement the July National Charter reforms through the referendum. Parwar emphasised the need to appoint neutral officials at all administrative levels, including Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police, to ensure free and fair elections. “If loyalists of a particular party are appointed in the administration, conducting a neutral election will be impossible,” he said. He also claimed that public sentiment strongly favours a ‘Yes’ vote, while those campaigning for ‘No’ oppose both the reforms and a neutral electoral process. On the continuation of the eight-party movement, Parwar said, “The eight-party liaison committee is responsible for our programme. They will convene and make announcements. Not all our demands have been met, so our movement will continue.”

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Sunday (November 16) urged people and political parties to resist the ‘vested quarter’ that, he alleged, is trying to create anarchy ahead of Monday’s (November 17) verdict in the case filed against ‘fascist Sheikh Hasina for committing genocide’. “The verdict in the trial over the genocide committed by fascist Hasina will be delivered tomorrow (Monday). Extreme uncertainty and fear are now prevailing across the entire country because of this,” Fakhrul said. Speaking at a discussion, he also said a vested quarter is conspiring to use this moment to push Bangladesh back into chaos. “We must stand firm and resist them,” he said. The BNP leader said the country’s people, particularly the students, have created an opportunity to restore democracy and people’s rights. “We must not waste this opportunity. We have to work to make the path towards democratic transition easier.” Read more: Tarique hails Australian MPs’ call for democracy, election integrity in Bangladesh He urged all political parties to unite on the question of establishing democracy and move forward towards the coming election. “Guided by the ideals of Maulana Abul Hamid Khan Bhasani, we must work to establish democracy in this country.” The International Crimes Tribunal-1 (ICT-1) is set to deliver its verdict on Monday in the case against deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her two top aides, who face five counts of alleged crimes against humanity linked to last year’s deadly student-led uprising in Dhaka during July–August. BNP arranged the programme at the Jatiya Press Club marking the 49th death anniversary of Moulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhasani, a legendary politician and one of the dreamers of Bangladesh’s independence. Fakhrul said the country’s politics has now fallen into a state of confusion, with ‘contentious’ elements entering the political arena that the people of Bangladesh could never imagine. He said it is unfortunate that the country is now facing a critical crisis due to bad politics practised by some parties. Read more: BTV to broadcast live verdict on Hasina in July Uprising case The BNP leader reiterated that elections are the only path to a transition to democracy. “An election is the only way through which we can move towards democracy and reflect the people’s aspirations.” Despite confusion, frustration and uncertainty, he said a possibility has now emerged that the national election will be held on 26 February. Fakhrul, however, warned that certain quarters are still deliberately trying to create uncertainty in the country by raising various demands with the intention of obstructing, halting or delaying the election. “But the people of this country now need one thing above all — an elected government that has public support,” he said. Fakhrul urged all political parties to support the election process instead of making efforts to derail the polls, for the sake of the country and its people. “Support the election so that the people can express their opinion, their belief, and elect their representatives through this vote.” He warned that the economic situation is deteriorating day by day and will worsen further without an elected government. “The law-and-order situation is already bad, and without an elected government it will deteriorate even more.” Fakhrul recalled how Bhasani devoted his entire life to fighting for the rights of the oppressed and deprived, living very simply as a lifelong champion of the people. BNP to reinstate ‘faith in Allah’ in constitution if returns to power: Salahuddin He urged BNP leaders and workers to read books on the life and work of Bhasani and follow his ideals. Fakhrul also recalled that Bhasani had recognised in Ziaur Rahman a leader capable of changing the country’s fate, and blessed him, and had encouraged NAP leader Mashiur Rahman Jadu Mia to work alongside Zia.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has expressed heartfelt gratitude to members of the Australian Parliament for speaking out on democracy, human rights and electoral integrity in Bangladesh, saying their position echoes the hopes and concerns of millions of Bangladeshis. In a post on his verified Facebook page on Saturday (November 15), he said, “Many Bangladeshis, including myself, extend our sincere appreciation to the Australian parliamentarians who have spoken with clarity and conscience on the issues of democracy, human rights, and electoral integrity in Bangladesh. Their thoughtful intervention reflects a deep commitment to universal democratic principles and to the wellbeing of the Bangladeshi people.” Across Bangladesh, the BNP leader said many citizens are expressing genuine concern about political uncertainty, security, and the need for an electoral process in which every voice can be heard without fear or restriction. Tarique warns against political volatility, urges election participation “These concerns come from ordinary people who wish only for stability, justice, and the opportunity to choose their future through a peaceful and credible democratic process,” he said. At this pivotal moment, Tariaue said the call from Australian MPs to ensure the safety, dignity, and political rights of all election participants resonates strongly with the hopes of Bangladeshis at home. “Their message acknowledges what millions have been saying for months: that democracy is strongest when it is inclusive, transparent, and safeguarded from violence or intimidation,” he said. Tarique Rahman likely to return home by end of November: Salahuddin The BNP leader also praised the Bangladeshi diaspora in Australia for their role in raising these issues internationally, noting their contributions to Australian society and their continuing commitment to Bangladesh. “Their advocacy, driven by love for their homeland, has helped ensure that the challenges and aspirations of Bangladeshis are understood globally,” he said. Tarique also said Australia and Bangladesh share long-standing ties based on respect and cooperation. He thanked the Australian representatives who have expressed solidarity, saying their support highlights the collective global commitment to democracy. Tarique’s 31-point plan offers path to democratic revival: Ndileka Mandela “When nations come together, we can encourage one another toward peace, justice, and progress,” he said.

BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has said that if the BNP returns to power, it will take steps to ensure a more business-friendly environment for entrepreneurs across the country. He made the remarks on Saturday while speaking at the Faridpur Divisional Business Forum meeting, chaired by BNP’s Faridpur Divisional Organizing Secretary Shama Obaid Islam. The BNP leader said that Bangladesh’s politics and economy have long functioned under a patronage system, where economic power became concentrated in the hands of a few people. “If we want to come out of that system, we cannot democratize the economy by simply offering concessions while leaving the core structure untouched,” he said. He added that the BNP’s new slogan is “democratizing the economy.” “To revive the economy, all citizens must have equal opportunity to participate in economic activities,” he said. “The benefits of those activities must reach everyone. A level playing field should be created in business and trade so that all entrepreneurs can participate equally. Investment procedures must be simplified, ensuring that investors can engage in business without unnecessary suffering.” The meeting was also addressed by BNP Chairperson’s Advisor Shahzada Mia, Krishak Dal Central General Secretary Shahidul Islam Babul, prominent businessman Jahangir Hosne Mia, District BNP Convener Modarres Ali Icha, Nayab Yusuf, Farian Yusuf, and other business leaders from Greater Faridpur.

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Saturday questioned why voters will not have the option to say ‘No’ if they disagree with any of the four questions in the proposed national referendum. “We have seen that there are four questions, and voters must answer either yes or no. But there is no space to say ‘no’. If I disagree with any of the four questions, where will I write ‘no’? This gap has not been addressed in the referendum process,” he said. Rizvi made the remarks after providing financial assistance to ailing radio artiste Afroza Nezami on behalf of BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman, in the city’s Shyamoli area, at an event organised by ‘Amra BNP Paribar’. He said the referendum process lacks a clear option for rejecting any question, and experts have also raised the same concerns. “If someone cannot agree with a question, there must be a clear and visible space on the ballot to reject it. But this provision is missing.” The BNP leader said anything done in a hurried or unclear way does not last. “For any national process to be sustainable, it must be clear, strong and understandable to at least 90 percent of the people. If people do not understand the purpose of the referendum, they will remain confused, and the whole effort will lose meaning.” He said the spirit of the July Charter should be explained in simple terms so that ordinary people can understand it. Rizvi said people need food, shelter, healthcare for the sick, and education for their children. “These are the first conditions for any charter. The July Charter should have been presented in a way that the whole nation could understand why the referendum is needed.” He said the government must clearly explain the goals, the legal process, and why the referendum is necessary. “People are asking these questions today, and that is why we are raising them before you.” The BNP leader said the main spirit of the July Revolution was to build a Bangladesh where no fascist force rises again, where opposition parties can speak freely, and citizens can live safely. Accusing the government of allowing the situation to become unstable, he said the country is being pushed into a murky situation as the fallen dictator is sitting abroad and organising violence and carrying out subversive acts. “Arson attacks in Dhaka and Gazipur have shown this clearly.” Rizvi alleged that such arson violence is the ‘culture of the Awami League’, not BNP. “When we called hartals for restoring democracy, they would try to blame BNP by committing arson themselves. Youth League and Chhatra League members were caught red-handed many times.” He said the recent arson incidents show who is responsible for the arson violence in the past as well. “This is their culture — a fascist culture.” Rizvi said the interim government must ensure a free, fair and peaceful national election in the first week of February. “Everyone must remain alert and aware.” Replying to a question about Jamaat and some other parties’ threat to continue their movement for PR and referendums before the national election, Rizvi said talks are the best way to resolve problems. “But giving any programme that looks like a ‘point of no return’ is not right at this moment. Our country needs to grow democratically. In democracy, there is no ‘point of no return’. Democracy allows discussion, criticism, and protest — all of these. But if you reach a point of no return, democracy collapses,” he added.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Saturday (November 15) said his party will give top priority to resolving longstanding water-sharing disputes and stopping what he described as ‘Indian hegemony’ with Bangladesh. Talking to reporters after inspecting a rubber dam built on the Mahananda River in Chapainawabganj, Fakhrul said issues related to the Teesta and Farakka, fair water shares, and border killings will be among top priorities if their party is elected to power. Ensuring Bangladesh’s fair share of water and stopping border killings are priorities of BNP’s politics, he asserted. Read more: Global democracies push for fair election in Bangladesh: Khosru Fakhrul said India, as a neighbouring country, has every opportunity to maintain good relations with Bangladesh. “During the Liberation War in 1971, India stood by us. They should extend even greater cooperation now. But unfortunately, we have witnessed the opposite. The Modi government has put pressure on Bangladesh, taken everything, and given us nothing. That was the failure of the Awami League government,” he added. “The relations must be on the basis of equal footing. Our national interests must come first,” Fakhrul added. The BNP secretary general arrived in Chapainawabganj to join a mass rally organised as part of the ‘Save the Padma, Save the Country; Bangladesh First’ campaign. Read more: BNP weighing review of ‘controversial’ nominations amid grassroots unrest

Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury on Saturday (November 15) said that a special law enforcement and security deployment plan will be there in place for nine days over the upcoming national election. “The plan includes five days prior to the election, one day on the election day, and three days following the vote, with strict security measures enforced throughout; and the duration may be adjusted depending on the country’s situation,” he said while talking to reporters at Patuakhali Circuit House. The adviser said the army currently has 30,000 personnel deployed, but this number is expected to rise to nearly 100,000 during the election period. He said the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) will contribute around 35,000 members, while the Navy and the Coast Guard will deploy five thousand and four thousand personnel respectively. “The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) will have approximately eight thousand members on duty.” Read more: Tensions rise as ICT going to set verdict date in Hasina case The adviser highlighted the role of the Ansar force, noting that about 550,000 personnel will be involved in the election management. According to him, Ansar will play a major role this time and will be equipped with weapons and body cameras to ensure effective management and security throughout the election period. Emphasising security, he asserted, “There is no room for doubt regarding security. The election will be held very peacefully—there is no question about that.” On a question regarding the change of government, the adviser said, “The government did not fall because of three individuals. It happened due to the spontaneous participation of the people. You have seen how they fled the country, how their relatives escaped. It was not due to one or two persons; it happened because of the will of the people.” Later, he inspected the Patuakhali Police Lines and the Coast Guard Station. Read more: Dhaka on high alert amid Awami League's countrywide ‘lockdown’ call