United News of Bangladesh

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Wednesday warned that any wrong decision by the current interim government could put the country’s democratic journey at serious risk and open the door to the rise of fascism, extremism and radicalism. “Any wrong step by the government can push the journey of democracy into crisis. Fascism, extremism and radicalism can raise their heads. So, we all, especially, the interim government must remain extremely careful,” he said. Tarique made the remarks while virtually addressing a protest rally organised by the Dhaka District unit of BNP at Darul Ihsan Madrasa ground at Sreepur in Ashulia. The programme was arranged to commemorate the victims of the brutal Ashulia incident during the July Mass Uprising 2024, where the bodies of martyrs were reportedly burned near the Ashulia Police Station. After the removal of fascist rule, Tarique said people entrusted the interim government with the responsibility of running the country, hoping their rights would be restored. He, however, expressed concern that certain elements within the interim government might be using evil tactics instead of working to return the country’s ownership to its people by handing over power to their elected representatives. “There is a serious concern and question among the people about whether the interim government is showing the wisdom and farsightedness needed in determining election priorities,” he said. Tarique also cautioned that the defeated and fugitive fascist forces are waiting for any mistake by the government to make their political gains. “I want to draw the attention of the interim government to the fact that the fallen, fugitive, defeated and ousted fascist forces are lurking in the shadows, waiting for an opportunity to return despite the blood of hundreds of martyrs,” he said. Tarique said if the government and political leadership could be made accountable to the people, then a real change in politics would be possible. “At the same time, it will be possible to ensure the political empowerment of the people.” He said people from all walks of life did not continue their movement for over fifteen years, nor did they become martyrs in the July uprising, just to hand over state power to a few individuals. The BNP leader said people removed the autocratic and fascist regime and sacrificed their lives to establish their rights in the state and government. “So, whoever is in power, if they want to govern, they must listen to people. They must understand the hopes and voices of every citizen. Anyone who wants to be elected as a public representative must stay connected to the people,” he said.   Tarique said his party wants to build Bangladesh that the martyrs had dreamt of, through a politics that empowers people. Khaleda Zia to contest election: BNP leader Mintoo Talking about the contributions of those who sacrificed their lives during the mass uprising, the BNP leader said he had said before that martyrs are not just numbers. “The death of one person means the end of dreams and possibilities for an entire family. But the martyrdom of your sons and loved ones has freed the country and its people from fascism. The nation is indebted to your martyred children,” he said, pointing at the family members of the martyrs. The BNP leader stressed that the state and the government have responsibilities towards every martyr’s family. He said farmers, workers and all working people should be able to feel proud of their role in building democracy. Tarique mentioned that if BNP gets the people’s support to form the next government, it plans to build a special memorial and establishments in Savar-Ashulia or another suitable place to honour the sacrifices of the martyrs, including those from working-class families. Paying tribute to the martyrs from the 1971 Liberation War to the 2024 uprising, he prayed that Allah would accept each sacrifice as martyrdom. The BNP acting chairman also prayed for the quick recovery of those who were injured. Speaking at the programme, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir urged all political parties not to create divisions over minor issues, so that the country’s path to democracy is not disrupted again. BNP seeks prompt trial for last year’s killings, immediate reforms: Fakhrul “Right now, a lot is being said and interpreted politically, and that’s normal in a democracy. But don’t do anything that could once again harm the democratic process,” he said. The BNP leader also warned that unnecessary disputes over small matters could help pave the way for what he called “the return of fascist Hasina”. He stressed the need for unity among all political forces to quickly resolve their differences and restore democratic order in the country.   The BNP leader voiced frustration that the government has still failed to provide proper compensation for the families of those killed and injured during the mass uprising. He strongly criticised deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, accusing her of resorting to brutal killings just to cling to power. He said Hasina must face trial for the atrocities she committed by killing students and ordinary people to forcibly stay in office. Some family members of the martyrs shared their heartbreaking stories, moving the entire gathering to tears.

BNP Vice Chairman Abdul Awal Mintoo has said BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia is in good health and will take part in the upcoming polls.“There is no concern regarding elections in the district. Our leader (Khaleda Zia) is well now. She will contest the election. There's no worry about Feni," he said while talking to reporters at a programme in Feni district town on Wednesday.“If a fair election is held, BNP will surely win in Feni, as the district has a well-known electoral history,” he said.He said, "Considering the country's current situation, the election may even be held earlier, possibly in January. A case regarding the caretaker government is currently under trial at the Supreme Court. If the court allows a reinstatement of the caretaker system then this interim government will function as a caretaker government and according to the Constitution, elections must be held within 90 days under a caretaker government.” BNP seeks prompt trial for last year’s killings, immediate reforms: FakhrulMintoo also noted that a joint statement on the interim government was issued after discussions with BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman in London."We have faith in that understanding and expect the election to be held in the first week of February. However, depending on the legal and political developments, it could be sooner," hesaid.Mentioning the necessity of accountability in governance, the BNP leader said, “No government will deliver good governance if it is not accountable to the people.Over the past 19 years, we have endured struggles, repression and hardship. If anyone says we are suddenly asking for an election, that’s not true. We've been demanding elections since 2006.”Recalling that the 2008 election was neither free nor fair, Mintoo said "Since 2006, the country has not had any election-time government. If a nation remains without an elected, accountable government for over two decades, there can be no meaningful improvement in economic or living standards. An election must be overseen by a government that is accountable to the people.”  

Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) on Wednesday decided to move its planned student rally on August 3 from the Central Shaheed Minar to Shahbagh, despite having secured permission for the original venue. Speaking at a press conference at the BNP’s Nayapaltan central office, JCD President Rakibul Islam Rakib said the decision was made in response to a request from the National Citizen Party (NCP), which has also scheduled a rally at the same time and place. “We received permission to hold the event at Shaheed Minar, and we chose the venue to avoid causing trouble for the public. In the interest of peace and cooperation, we have agreed to relocate our rally to Shahbagh,” he said. The JCD President acknowledged that holding the rally at Shahbagh, a key intersection in Dhaka, may cause traffic disruptions. “We apologise in advance to city residents for any inconvenience,” Rakib added. The JCD had earlier announced a series of programmes marking the anniversary of the July Uprising, with the August 3 student rally being one of the key events. He said they submitted a formal request for Shaheed Minar in June and received written approval from Dhaka University authorities. JCD approves new committees at 19 private universities Rakib, however, said the NCP later announced its own nationwide programme titled ‘March for July’, which was also scheduled to conclude at Shaheed Minar on August 3. Following several discussions and requests from NCP leaders, he said they agreed to move their programme. Rakib claimed that their decision reflects JCD’s commitment to peaceful politics, democratic values and respect for differing opinions. “We believe in co-existence and setting an example of tolerance, even when we are in the right,” he said. Rakib also expressed frustration that despite JCD’s active role in the July-August movement and continued presence on campuses, the organisation’s efforts are often overlooked or undermined. “We have always chosen peace over provocation. This venue change is just another example of that,” he said. JCD stages sit-in at Shahbagh protesting Shammo killing amid rain, halting traffic The JCD President hoped that its gesture will be recognised as a sign of political maturity and a call for respectful student politics across campuses in the country.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Sunday said their party wants the prompt trial of those responsible for the killings during last years’ mass uprising as well as the quick implementation of the much-needed reforms in the country. “We want a quick trial for these killings (during the mass uprising). We also want the urgently needed reforms to be carried out without delay,” he said while speaking at the ‘Commemoration and Dialogue’ event, marking the anniversary of the July 2024 events. Fakhrul, however, said it is important to remember that the country needs a government that truly represents people. “Because there is a difference between working with a public mandate and working without it,” he said. He expressed the hope that Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus will fulfill the commitment he has already made to people — that a free, fair and widely acceptable election will be held. “Through this election, a representative government and parliament of the people will be established.” The BNP leader said it is crucial to rebuild the country’s institutions that were destroyed during what he called the fascist regime. “Many of our problems come from the fact that all our institutions were weakened or broken by the Awami fascists. These institutions need to be rebuilt. This is not an easy task. It will take time and will be difficult. We must be patient,” Fakhrul said. Fakhrul urges interim govt to declare ‘July Charter’, hails consensus on reforms He also mentioned that one of the biggest challenges the country now faces is the lack of tolerance among people. “We must overcome this. We need to be more patient. Surely, if we have managed to face so many challenges in the past, we can overcome this one too.” The UN Event on the July Uprising and Fact-Finding Report was held at Hotel Intercontinental, Dhaka. The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) carried out an independent fact-finding mission on the events of July–August 2024. The report from that mission, released on 12 February 2025, presented detailed findings and made key recommendations to help prevent such incidents from happening again. After so much bloodshed and sacrifice, Fakhrul said, the people of Bangladesh must now come together to build a democratic nation. “I want to put special emphasis on the word democratic. I truly believe that democracy, as a system, has the ability to gradually solve our problems. Of course, the solutions will not come overnight. There won’t be any sudden miracle. But I strongly believe that real change will come through a democratic process,” he said. Fakhrul expressed concern that the media often highlight debates and differences of opinion among the political parties too much. “But I want to stress that in a democracy, some disagreement is natural. Political parties are not meant to speak with one voice. By making these disagreements seem bigger than they are, we risk creating unnecessary division in the country,” he said. The BNP leader said the political parties have already reached agreement on some key issues. “I was happy to see in today’s newspapers that we have reached consensus on 12 core issues.” He said the remaining issues can be solved by the next elected government through political will and commitment. “It will be the responsibility of those elected through a democratic process, or who form the next government, to solve the rest. They must be committed to finishing the job.” Fakhrul expressed the hope that the young generation will come forward to help build a Bangladesh where people’s rights are protected, where no child ever has to sacrifice life again. He thanked the United Nations and its Human Rights Commission for their recent report on the brutality carried out by the Awami League government during last year’s mass uprising. “It’s a valuable document… but it’s not enough. The level of torture, oppression, and abuse that the people of Bangladesh have endured is far greater. So, let us come together to write the true history, find the right path, and take this nation to the place for which our children gave their lives,” Fakhrul said.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami on Tuesday termed the draft of the July Charter ‘incomplete’ and described its some parts  as ‘dangerous’, particularly the proposal to implement reforms within two years by the next elected government. “It’s incomplete and some parts of it are dangerous,” said Jamaat’s Nayeb-e-Ameer Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher during a break in the 21st session of the second-round reform dialogues between the National Consensus Commission (NCC) and political parties at the city’s Foreign Service Academy. Demanding a legal framework for the charter to ensure the implementation of the reform proposals agreed in the dialogue, the Jamaat leader proposed two options: either enact a legal framework through an ordinance and have it later ratified by an elected parliament, or obtain public mandate through a referendum. He said Jamaat is preparing its own draft of the charter and will soon submit it to the Commission. “Whatever consensus is reached in the dialogue, there must be a legal framework for their implementation.” Taher reiterated the issues on which political consensus achieved must be effective and backed by a legal structure. Otherwise, he warned, the political future of the country could descend into uncertainty. “We are ready to proceed with either path to give legitimacy to this framework,” he said. On the structure of the caretaker government, Taher said, there had been extensive discussions in the dialogue.  “We all agreed that the national election must be held under a caretaker government. Almost everyone agrees, except BNP, which has placed some observations,” he said. Jamaat seeks neutral, merit-based PSC to curb bureaucratic authoritarianism According to the proposed framework, a five-member search committee would be formed, comprising the Prime Minister, Leader of the Opposition, the Speaker, the Deputy Speaker (from the opposition), and a representative from the second-largest opposition party. This body would select the head of the caretaker government from a list of 12 prospective candidates. If a unanimous choice cannot be made, the process would proceed in phases—from consensus to single-choice voting, and if necessary, ranked choice voting. In that case, the total number of voters would be seven, including the five search committee members, one judge each from the Appellate Division and one from the High Court division. “The two justices have been included to ensure that no third party or person becomes the sole deciding factor,” Taher said, adding, “We hope the judges will remain neutral and that this will reduce the risk of horse-trading in this selection process.” Taher said BNP's main objection was that, in the absence of consensus, the matter should be referred to parliament. But most parties, including Jamaat, believe that once the issue goes to parliament, no decision will ever be finalised, he said.

The National Citizen Party (NCP) on Tuesday demanded that the implementation of the July Charter be given a legal foundation before the next parliamentary election. “We've clearly said that the implementation of the consensus points reached in the dialogue must be ensured through a legal framework before the election, and the next parliament election must be held based on that,” said NCP Joint Convener Javed Rasin. He placed the demand at a press briefing during the lunch break of the 21st session of the second-round reform dialogue between the National Consensus Commission and political parties in the city’s Foreign Service Academy. The NCP leader said his party has already conveyed this position verbally to the NCC and would submit it in writing, if needed. Rasin said although the Commission earlier spoke of six decision-making methods, it released the draft charter suddenly without consulting on those methods. “This is not a proper approach,” he said. NCP postpones rallies in Feni, Noakhali, Lakshmipur after Milestone plane crash “We strongly oppose this. There has not even been a discussion about the procedures of decision-making. Releasing a draft without that is unacceptable to us,” Rasin added. On the caretaker government issue, he said several days of dialogue had focused on the ranked choice voting method to select the chief of the caretaker government. Under the latest proposal, two additional members from the judiciary would be added to form a seven-member committee that will cast votes in the ranked choice system. “We support this proposal. Almost all political parties agree with it except BNP and a few of its allies,” he said. The NCP leader said his party has stressed the need for implementing fundamental reforms that are essential to dismantle what he described as the existing fascist structure. “If these reforms are not implemented, NCP will hold internal discussions on whether to sign the July Charter,” he sadded.

Stating that a consensus among political parties on 12 fundamental reform proposals is a positive development, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Tuesday urged the interim government to immediately declare the ‘July Charter’, paving the path for holding the national election. “I see something good happening. I read in the newspapers today (Tuesday) that all parties have agreed on 12 fundamental points of reform. This is a positive step,” he said while addressing a discussion. The BNP leader praised Vice Chair of the National Consensus Commission Professor Ali Riaz and his team for their hard work in bringing various political parties closer on key reforms. “We would like to clearly say—complete the reforms without delay and immediately announce the (July National) Charter. Please hold the national election on the date that was discussed in the meeting in London with our Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, which gave the nation hope and inspiration. Give people back their rights, including their right to vote,” he said. Shafiul Bari Babu Smriti Sangsad organised the programme at the Jatiya Press Club, marking the fifth death anniversary of former Jatiyatabadi Swechchhasebak Dal president Shafiul Bari Babu. Fakhrul said some people criticise BNP by claiming the party does not want reforms. “But the idea of reform came from us—we were the ones who initiated it.” BNP pledges to prioritise child labour elimination if elected: Fakhrul  He said BNP’s founder Ziaur Rahman began the reform process by restoring democracy and introducing a multiparty system, after Sheikh Mujibur Rahman -- the key architect of authoritarian rule -- had buried democracy by establishing one-party rule through BAKSAL. “It was Ziaur Rahman who brought back multiparty democracy, removing all darkness. He also ensured freedom of expression and freedom of the press through those reforms. That was his political reform,” the BNP leader said. As part of economic reforms, he said Ziaur Rahman introduced a free-market economy, moving away from a rigid and flawed economic model, which helped improve the condition of the country within three and a half years. Fakhrul said BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia introduced the parliamentary form of democracy, replacing the presidential system. He said Khaleda also introduced the caretaker government system and carried out many reforms for women’s empowerment and the development of various sectors. “So, BNP has never been afraid of reforms-- we’ve always welcomed them,” Fakhrul observed. He thanked all involved in building consensus on 12 key issues but raised concerns about proposals like the proportional representation (PR) system, which he said are unfamiliar to most people in Bangladesh. “There are proposals like proportional representation in the lower house of parliament—which our people don’t even understand. Many don’t know what PR means. People still struggle with EVM voting—how will they understand PR?” the BNP leader said. Fakhrul criticised a few political parties for insisting they won’t join elections unless such a system is introduced. “Let’s move away from these confusing ideas. Give people a voting system they understand—one that ensures their proper representation in parliament.” He also cautioned against trying to solve Bangladesh’s problems using foreign ideas that do not match the country’s political culture or realities.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Tuesday said reforms and structural changes in the State must lead to real improvements in public life, especially for children. “We want a change in the state structure and we want reforms. But if these reforms and changes don’t help ensure the overall development of our people, don’t help build a better future for our children or give them a secure life, then I think such reforms will be of no use,” he said. Fakhrul made the remarks while speaking at a programme titled ‘Children in Democratic March’, jointly organised by ‘Amara BNP Poribar’ and ‘Mayer Daak’ at the Kemal Ataturk Playground in Banani, to honour the families of those who were forcibly disappeared and the children killed in the July Uprising. Expressing deep frustration, he said the state has taken little or no initiative to support the families who have lost their loved ones in democratic movements. The BNP Secretary General hoped that the government will take urgent and meaningful steps to rehabilitate children and families affected by enforced disappearances and the mass movement in the country. “I hope that our interim government, despite the delay, will prioritise their rehabilitation, considering the pain and suffering they have endured while searching for their fathers, relatives and brothers,” he said. BNP proposes 5pc women for direct polls in upcoming election  Fakhrul also criticised the ineffectiveness of the commission formed to investigate enforced disappearances. “Though a Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances was formed, it has only submitted a report. I don’t think they have made much progress (in finding the missing people or the facts).” The BNP leader said the families of those who were forcibly disappeared or killed in democratic movements, including children, have made immense sacrifices in the long struggle for the restoration of people’s lost rights. “With the change that took place in the country (on August 5 last year), many people secured powerful positions -- some became ministers, others top officials, and many established large businesses. But when it comes to our children, we have not been able to move forward in the same way,” he said. Fakhrul said they expected the current government, even as an interim one, to form a special cell for the rehabilitation of these children and their families. “Unfortunately, that has not happened,” he said. He promised that if BNP is elected to power in the upcoming national election with people’s mandate, the party would take all necessary steps to rehabilitate the families and children of the victims. Those afraid of elections should join NGOs, not politics: Amir Khosru Fakhrul concluded his speech with a heartfelt appeal, “Let us come together and build a safe and liveable environment for these children—a child who still stands holding a placard, waiting for their father to return. We don’t know whether that father is alive or if we can bring him back—but we can at least work to ensure that the child has a better life and a hopeful future. This is a debt we can never fully repay.”

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Monday said he was left ‘deeply saddened’ after learning about the recent arrest of five coordinators of Students Against Discrimination (SAD) on charges of extortion. “When I saw it in the newspaper, I felt as if I had turned blue with pain. I saw that five coordinators were arrested by the police for forcibly extorting Tk 50 lakh from the house of a former MP,” he said. The BNP leader made the remarks while formally inaugurating Jatiyatabadi Jubo Dal’s month-long programme in front of the National Museum in the capital’s Shahbagh area, marking the first anniversary of the July Uprising. He also expressed concern about the country’s future, saying it was alarming to see the youths who led the mass uprising now being involved in such alleged wrongdoing. “Is this the outcome we hoped for? Did anyone in this country want this? If such things are happening so soon --not even a year has passed --then what is our future? Dear fellow comrades (leaders and activists of Jubo Dal), I am saying these words because the whole country is now looking towards you,” the BNP leader said. He said it was the young men and women who brought the changes --who brought down Hasina’s rule and drove her out of power and out of the country. “It is these very young people who now have to rebuild this country. It is they who must shape the future of a beautiful Bangladesh based on fairness, justice and humanity.” Fakhrul also lamented that even after one year they are still unable to say loudly and confidently that they are ready to rebuild the country anew. “Our leader, Tarique Rahman, from far away, has been guiding us day and night, 24 hours a day. He has been trying to organise us. After encouraging us to take part in the movement to overthrow the fascists, he is now working hard to figure out how to rebuild Bangladesh,” he said. Fakhrul highlighted the oppression and torture faced by BNP leaders and activists under the fascist Awami League government over the past 15 years. He said BNP leaders and workers were severely tortured — their veins were cut, hands broken and many beaten and hung. “Even our junior leader (Sultan Salahuddin) Tuku was not spared.” Despite facing severe torture, Fakhrul said no one of the BNP leaders and workers ever gave any undertaking or surrendered. The BNP leader expressed disappointment that journalists did not publish pictures of the victims belonging to their party. “I would like to urge journalists to please call a spade a spade and recognise everyone’s respective contributions.” He also mentioned that during the July movement, 79 members of Jubo Dal and 142 members of the Chhatra Dal were martyred. On August 5 last year, Fakhrul said, the entire nation came out onto the streets — not just a few political parties or students, but people of all ages, from children to elderly people in their nineties. He pointed out that more than 2,000 people lost their lives and many were maimed or blinded. “Their one clear goal was to remove the fascist Hasina from power and establish a democratic system and a just society in the country.” Fakhrul said BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia was sent to a deserted prison on false charges and she sacrificed everything for democracy in the country. “But nobody now talks about these issues anymore.” He also warned that those trying to pressure and trap the BNP would not succeed in their attempts. The BNP leader alleged that the interim government, which talks about reform every moment, is trying to blame political parties by indirectly suggesting that they are not cooperating. He denied this, saying the BNP is constantly cooperating with the reform efforts and wants to work with everyone. Fakhrul also questioned why the trial of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has not yet started, despite nearly a year passing since the July mass uprising. “It has been one year, so why hasn’t Hasina’s trial fully started yet? The BBC has released audio recordings showing that those who openly carried out the killings were ordered by Hasina to shoot and use lethal weapons. This matter has still not come to trial,” he said.  

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami’s Nayeb-e-Ameer Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher on Monday demanded a transparent, merit-based and impartial Public Service Commission (PSC) to keep ‘authoritarian ghosts’ at bay from the country’s bureaucracy. “We want a PSC that is transparent, merit-based and impartial, so that no ‘dictatorial ghost’ can rule the administration anymore,” he said while briefing reporters during the lunch break of the 20th session of the second-round reform dialogue between the National Consensus Commission and political parties in the capital's Foreign Service Academy. Taher said many talented young people were denied jobs in the past or lost their jobs due to political identity, which ultimately harmed the state the most. “In our neighbouring countries, there’s no compromise over PSCs. They ensure that qualified people are appointed and the merits are valued in the administration to strengthen the state,” he said. Criticising the existing system, the Jamaat leader said recruitment in the administration is sometimes determined by ‘a note from a drawer’. “We want a PSC protected as an independent body by the Constitution and remains beyond the interference of any minister, prime minister or political party,” he added. NCC vice chair Prof Ali Riaz on Monday morning raised a proposal for discussion over the appointment process to the PSC and three other key constitutional and statutory instinstitutions -- Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) and Ombudsman’s Office. The Jamaat leader said most political parties are in favour of enshrining these bodies' independence in the Constitution. But BNP and a few others argued for safeguards by laws instead of amending the Constitution is difficult. “If these institutions are safeguarded by laws, any government with a majority can change the laws anytime in the morning and evening. So, it has to be in the Constitution to ensure stability and eliminate partisan advantage,” he said. Regarding BNP’s walkout from the dialogue, Taher said, “We thank them for not boycotting the entire event and joining later. We don’t look at parties as government or opposition—we evaluate proposals based on what best serves the country.” About the election, he said Jamaat is ready to contest but expressed concern over the lack of a level playing field and equal opportunities for all parties. “If the election is held, our first agenda in the manifesto will be building a corruption-free Bangladesh,” Taher declared.