United News of Bangladesh

BNP senior leader Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury on Sunday said investment, business activities and even personal and family decisions across the country have come to a standstill as people are waiting for the national election. “People now want emancipation form the current situation through the election. All decisions have been postponed — whether it is about investment, business, or family matters. Everyone is saying, Let the election happen first, then we’ll decide. Everything is on hold,” he said. The BNP leader made the remarks while speaking at the launch of a book titled ‘Visionary Recommendations for Building an Advanced Nation of the Future’ at Dhaka Reporters’ Unity (DRU). The event was organised by the book’s author and publisher, Dr Mohammad Faiz Uddin MBE, a former senior official in the UK public service and local government. Khosru, a BNP Standing Committee member, alleged that a certain group is trying to delay the election despite people’s strong desire to vote. Constitution has no referendum provision, says Amir Khosru  “Those who are working to delay the election are actually against democracy. Can we really believe they stand for democratic values?” he said. On the issue of the proposed referendum, Khosru said, “The current interim government has taken oath under the existing Constitution, which does not allow a referendum before or on the election day. Still, BNP has agreed, out of political tolerance, to consider a referendum on the election day for the sake of harmony and mutual respect.” He said BNP agreed to the idea of holding the referendum on the election day as a gesture of political tolerance. “We have shown flexibility so that mutual respect is maintained and the country does not fall into chaos.” Khosru said the BNP has already completed much of the groundwork for reforms in key sectors, including administration, policing and governance, to ensure that, if the party receives a mandate to form the government, it can begin implementing its plans from day one. “In Bangladesh, after forming a government, months or even years pass before decisions are made. This time, we are preparing everything in advance so that if Allah gives us the opportunity to serve the nation, we can take action from the first day,” he said. Khosru said people’s expectations are now very high and their patience is running low. “After so many years of misrule, people expect immediate solutions once this regime ends. To meet these expectations, we must be fully prepared from now on so that people do not lose hope.”   He also discussed BNP’s long-standing proposal for a bicameral legislature, which was first outlined in its Vision 2030 document eight years ago and later reaffirmed by BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman in the party’s 31-point reform plan. Amir Khosru questions political parties’ authority on PR system referendum “Now, many are talking about the bicameral system as if it is a new idea. But it was BNP that proposed it first, years ago. Others are only now realising its importance,” the BNP leader said. Khosru criticised those trying to impose their own ideas on others under the guise of forming consensus. “True democracy means respecting differences and reaching agreements through people’s mandate, not by forcing others to accept one’s views. Decisions about how the country will run must come from the people, not a small group in Dhaka.”  

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General and former MP Mia Golam Parwar on Sunday condemned the use of police force, sound grenades and water cannons on government primary school teachers demonstrating in Dhaka to press home their three-point demand, including salary upgrade to the 10th grade. In a statement, Mia Golam Parwar said the teachers’ demands should be considered with sympathy and resolved through discussion. “It is the responsibility of the government to address their demands in a reasonable manner. The injuries caused to over a hundred teachers during the protest are deeply regrettable and painful.” He said teachers play a vital role as the ‘architects of the nation’ and any movement involving them should be handled with more patience and respect. Jamaat ready with candidates for 300 constituencies: Mia Parwar Parwar said the teachers have now announced an indefinite work abstention, which has created concern among students, parents and the wider public. With annual exams approaching, prolonged disruption of classes could severely affect children’s education, he added. He urged the government to step back from a hardline stance and engage in dialogue to resolve the issue. “The government should take immediate steps to end the teachers’ movement and

A delegation from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) met BNP leaders on Sunday (9th November 2025) and discussed various issues, including reforms in the financial and social sectors. The IMF team, led by Chris Papageorgiou, its Bangladesh Mission chief, held the meeting at the BNP Chairperson’s Gulshan office, said BNP Media Cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan. BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury led the four-member party delegation. The other members were BNP Chairperson’s Advisory Council members Md Ismail Zabihullah and Dr Ziauddin Hyder, and BNP Organising Secretary Shama Obaed. Sayrul said both sides discussed the preliminary findings of the IMF’s ongoing mission review report. Salahuddin slams govt for 7-day ultimatum on referendum consensus “The key issues of discussions included value-added tax (VAT) harmonisation and the reduction of exemptions under a new technical assistance programme, increasing corporate tax to improve the GDP-to-tax revenue ratio, reforming the banking sector, and raising social sector spending, which the BNP delegation highlighted as one of the party’s key policy priorities,” he said. Sayrul said the BNP delegation stressed that reforms in the financial, tax, and social sectors are essential to ensure sustainable economic stability in Bangladesh. “They said the BNP believes that long-term growth is not possible without an accountable and transparent financial management system.” He said the IMF team appreciated the BNP’s reform-focused policy priorities and constructive approach. The meeting ended with both sides expressing hope for continued policy dialogue and greater cooperation in the future, Sayrul added. IMF Chief highlights importance of bold reforms in banking sector

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed on Saturday (8th November 2025) described Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman as a ‘self-declared president’ and Sheikh Hasina as a ‘fascist ruler inspired by Baksal ideology’. Speaking at a discussion organised by Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal in the city marking the November 7 ‘Revolution and Solidarity Day’, Salahuddin said the day symbolises the nation’s restoration of freedom and democracy. “After the Liberation War, November 7 was the most significant day in our national history. When all democratic avenues were blocked, the nation found a solution through bloodshed as it did during the July uprising,” he said. Defending his remark, the BNP leader said Sheikh Mujib amended the Constitution in only 13 minutes to establish one-party rule under Baksal and declared himself president without any election. “Staying in power without election is the hallmark of Awami-style democracy. From Sheikh Mujib to Sheikh Hasina that has been their way. Democracy does not exist in their blood, in their ideology, or in their DNA,” he alleged. Citing the 1983 compilation of the documents of independence by poet Hasan Hafizur Rahman, Salahuddin claimed historical records show that the declaration of independence came through Ziaur Rahman, not Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. He said, “…on March 26, announced the country’s independence from Chittagong’s Sholoshahar area as the provisional chief of state.” Some political parties’ actions may endanger people’s rights, warns Tarique Referring to writings by Tajuddin Ahmad’s family members, he added, “Tajuddin went to Mujib that night with a tape recorder, but Sheikh Mujib refused to give any declaration. Yet, the April 10 proclamation states Mujib had ‘formally declared’ independence — how is that possible?” “The way Awami League manipulated the declaration issue shows that its politics is built on lies,” he said. Salahuddin, however, acknowledged Sheikh Mujibur Rahman as a national leader and credited his contribution during the Liberation War, saying his post-independence actions must also be part of the discussion. “The nation expected freedom, rights, and democracy from Sheikh Mujib, but he buried democracy with his own hands. Sheikh Hasina has done the same,” the BNP leader said. He said, “At least Sheikh Mujib amended the Constitution before forming Baksal, but Sheikh Hasina has imposed fascism under the guise of democracy.” Turning to Awami League’s November 13 ‘lockdown’ programme, Salahuddin said BNP will resist it, adding, “Awami League has lost its sanity. If people really supported their calls, why were they driven out of the country on August 5 last year?” He claimed the ruling party called the lockdown centering the verdict in a case involving Sheikh Hasina. “If you have courage, come back to the country and face trial in court,” Salahuddin challenged. Read more: Constitution has no referendum provision, says Amir Khosru

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Saturday (8th November 2025) cautioned that the recent actions of certain political parties, who once marched alongside the anti-fascist movement, may now be creating a situation that undermines the rights and opportunities of people. Virtually addressing the ‘Hindu Representative Council 2025’, he also said the interim government’s main responsibility is to establish a democratic administration through free and fair elections, not to serve any party’s interests. “The role of some of our allies in the anti-fascist street movement is perhaps creating a situation that could destroy the rights and opportunities of many people in the country, including yours and mine. If the country becomes unstable, it may pave the way for the rehabilitation of the fallen, defeated, fugitive fascist forces,” the BNP leader said. He urged the interim government and pro-democratic, anti-fascist forces to remain vigilant, suggesting that just as some opposition members once used covert strategies to survive under fascist rule, the defeated fascist forces might now be using similar secret tactics to obstruct the country’s path to democracy. “The defeated fugitive forces of August 5 should not be allowed to use any party as a cover to secretly create instability in the country. To protect against such covert tactics, the main strategy is to maintain and uphold a national anti-fascist unity,” Tarique said. He said BNP, therefore, remains committed to cooperation and understanding with the interim government and its partners in the anti-fascism movement. Matua Bahujan Samaj Oikya Jote arranged the programme at the Krishibid Institution Bangladesh. Leaders and activists from different Hindu organizations and temple management committees attended the event. The programme began with the recitation of verses from the Hindu scriptures, the Vedas and the Gita, followed by the lighting of lamps by the guests. Describing BNP as a peaceful, tolerant and people-oriented political party, Tarique said respecting different views and maintaining a positive attitude towards differing parties and opinions is part of BNP’s political culture. “BNP’s politics is aimed at ensuring the people’s political and economic empowerment.” He urged the interim government to focus primarily on holding a free, fair and credible election to restore democracy in the country. “One of the main responsibilities of the interim government is to establish a democratic administration in a fascism-free Bangladesh — a government elected by the people and accountable to the people. Certainly, it is not the duty of this government to serve any party’s political interests,” the BNP leader said. “That is why, instead of putting pressure on the government, the BNP considers issuing notes of dissent in areas of differing opinions as the decent way,” Tarique added. Pointing at the Hindu community, he said the interim government has already announced that the national election will be held in February next year. “Through this election, you will freely exercise your right to vote and choose your representatives.” Read more: Hindu Mohajote seeks minority security, religious neutrality in electioneering Tarique assured that BNP has already outlined a detailed plan for building a harmonious and prosperous Bangladesh. He said if given the opportunity to form the next government, it will introduce ‘Family Cards’ for 5 million low-income families, to be issued in the name of the female heads of households, as part of its poverty reduction programme. Tarique said BNP also plans to provide ‘Farmers’ Cards’ to small and marginal farmers to help them gradually become economically self-reliant. Stating that one of the biggest problems in Bangladesh is the high rate of unemployment among the country’s vast youth population, the BNP leader said their party has already taken initiatives to provide the youth with various technical training and important language education, so they can become skilled workers and find jobs both at home and abroad.  “Through these initiatives, the BNP seeks the support of you and your families in the upcoming national election to build a democratic Bangladesh of harmony and prosperity — where every citizen, regardless of religion or background, can live with dignity, freedom, and equal opportunity,” he said. The BNP leader said only justice and the rule of law can ensure the security of people of the country, irrespective of their religion, class, or political identity. Referring to Bangladesh’s religious faiths and cultural diversity, he said, “The bond of unity within diversity is the true beauty of our nation’s cultural, social, and political life. In such a diverse society, the unifying force is Bangladeshi nationalism.” Talking about equal rights for people of all religions in Bangladesh, Tarique said, “As a citizen of Bangladesh, you have the same rights in this country as I do — neither more nor less.” He also assured the Hindu community leaders that their various demands would be met. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said their party wants to build a non-communal, progressive, prosperous, and democratic Bangladesh as dreamt by BNP founder Ziaur Rahman. He said the Matua community wants to live with dignity, and BNP wants to ensure that people of all communities can live in the country with equal rights and dignity, regardless of their caste or creed. Fakhrul sought the support of the Matua community members for BNP in the next national election, so the party can receive a mandate to form the government. Read more: Hindu Mohajot Natore unit's president found dead under mysterious circumstances

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed on Saturday cautioned the interim government against ‘displaying excessive assertiveness’ by setting a seven-day deadline for achieving political consensus on the referendum issue, saying such an approach ‘does not befit’ a non-elected administration. “The government must remember it is not an elected one. Your mandate extends only to holding a free and fair election, and BNP’s support will continue only up to that point,” he said while speaking at a programme organised by Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal in the capital. Criticising the government for invoking other parties’ names to call BNP for talks, he said, “This is not a decent approach. Invite us directly if you truly want dialogue — don’t hide behind other parties.” Salahuddin claimed that BNP maintains active political communication with all parties, including the National Citizen Party (NCP) and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami. Recalling that he was the first to propose the idea of a referendum, Salahuddin said turning it into a divisive issue is unacceptable. “The referendum must take place on the same day as the national election. Holding it separately would be costly and impractical.” He also criticised the recent ultimatum issued by Islamist parties over the referendum issue, saying, “Whom are you warning? The government is already working in your favour. So, who are these ultimatums really for?" BNP candidate Ershad Ullah airlifted to Dhaka for treatment Salahuddin alleged that the chief adviser’s endorsement of the Consensus Commission’s recommendations represents a “clear conflict of interest,” claiming the commission’s report “fails to reflect months of discussion.  The commission’s tenure has expired, and its members have already returned to the United States.” On the upcoming 13th national election, Salahuddin said the schedule is likely to be announced in early December, giving about two months for campaigning. “Within that time, all propaganda by fascists and their allies will collapse,” he said, urging Chhatra Dal activists to actively campaign for BNP candidates in their constituencies. He also advised student leaders to develop their intellectual capacity by reading more books, saying, “The politics of the future will be based on merit, the era of empty rhetoric is over.”  

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami’s Assistant Secretary General Hamidur Rahman Azad on Saturday said their party is not involved in any activities that threaten the election process. He made the remark while speaking at a seminar on how political parties can use technology to better reflect citizens' aspirations in their election manifestos, at a city hotel. “We are proceeding positively. We are not, and never have been, involved in any activities that create unrest or threaten the election process. BNP is not willing to sit for talks with Jamaat, despite the latter’s call for dialogue. We don’t want politics to return to a fascist culture. However, if BNP calls for talks, we are ready to participate,” Azad said. The Jamaat leader said, “Jamaat is not a pressure group, it represents people’s opinions and aspirations on the streets. We can accept differences in opinion, but not division. We expect the national election to be held in February, and we are moving forward with that hope.” Azad described the proposed national referendum as an ‘acid test’ for the Election Commission, cautioning that holding the referendum and the national election on the same day could reduce voter turnout. “In national elections, voters’ attention remains focused on parties and candidates. If both the election and referendum are held together, it could delay voting and prevent many from casting their ballots,” he said. Referring to the implementation process of the July Charter, Azad said though the charter was signed with some notes of dissent, differences emerged only after the implementation process was presented. Jamaat, allies submit memo to CA, warn of ‘Different Dhaka’ on Nov 11 He also criticised the Election Commission for `creating confusion’ over the timing of the referendum, saying, “Holding the referendum on election day could cause complications. The main focus of the national election should remain on victory, and any suspension of polling could create uncertainty regarding the charter.” After the National Consensus Commission recommended the implementation of the July Charter, the BNP and Jamaat—once allies—took opposing stances over the timing of the referendum. The interim government has urged the political parties to hold discussions and reach an understanding.  

Stating that there is no provision for a referendum in the Constitution, BNP senior leader Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury on Saturday (8th November 2025) urged political parties to avoid heating up the streets over the issue in order to prevent political confrontation. “The current interim government has been formed under the existing Constitution and has taken oath in accordance with it. There is no provision for a referendum in this Constitution,” he said. Speaking at a dialogue titled ‘Jonotar Ishthehar (People’s Manifesto)’ at a city hotel, the BNP leader said if political parties want to introduce a referendum, they must first obtain a public mandate through the next election, place their proposals in Parliament, and only after those proposals are passed can a referendum be held. “We may have many desires and demands, but not all of them can be met by sitting in Dhaka and trying to reach consensus through the Consensus Commission. The only real solution is to go to the people and resolve these issues through their mandate,” he said. Khosru, a BNP Standing Committee member, said political parties should embrace the spirit of people’s mandate instead of imposing their ideas on others. BNP candidate Ershad Ullah airlifted to Dhaka for treatment “Everyone has the right to protest. But the people of Bangladesh no longer want confrontational politics. They want stability. Even when there is disagreement, people want to show respect for others’ views. That culture must take root among us,” he said. The BNP leader urged parties not to rush to the streets over the referendum issue, warning that such moves could spark violence. “You can’t keep going out into the streets over every issue. If one group stages a protest and another group then also takes to the streets in response, what will happen? There will be clashes. If the largest party mobilises on the streets and another large group protests against them, we will see violent confrontation,” he said. Khosru said the people of Bangladesh did not remove autocratic ruler Sheikh Hasina only to drag the country back into confrontational politics. “We must be extremely careful. There are those who may try to link such actions to attempts to disrupt or delay the election.” Fakhrul slams govt for creating situation to derail polls Khosru said BNP initially announced a 27-point state reform proposal, which was later expanded to 31 points through consultations with 42 parties and people from all walks of life. He said, “After publishing it, we sought public feedback nationwide and online, inviting suggestions to refine it further. People’s input is essential. Each party has its own philosophy and ideas, but no one should try to impose their views outside the agreed consensus.” After long discussions under the Consensus Commission, political parties reached an agreement and signed a joint charter, he said, adding, “That consensus must be respected during implementation. No one can enforce their own version unilaterally.” Khosru observed that after 15–17 years of Sheikh Hasina’s rule, an authoritarian mindset has developed, with some politicians believing only their opinions matter. “But democratic politics requires respect for differing views.” He warned that attempts to bypass consensus or impose unilateral decisions could undermine democracy. “There is no scope to go beyond the consensus reached among political parties. If anyone wants to move beyond that, they should go to the people in the next election with their manifesto.” Desperation to hold referendum before election raises public suspicion: Khosru Referring to the recent killing in Chattogram, Khosru said it appeared to stem from internal feuds within a student organisation but suspected that those trying to delay or obstruct the upcoming election might be involved. On BNP’s election preparations, he said the party’s forthcoming manifesto would focus on job creation, rural economic growth, education, healthcare, and investment reform. “BNP has a clear plan to create 10 million jobs within 18 months. We have identified exactly where and how those jobs will be created,” he said, adding that the plan prioritises agriculture, manufacturing and services. Khosru also pledged to invest up to 5% of GDP in education and healthcare, focusing on skills development and technology-based employment for the youth. “We will not pursue mega projects by printing money or taking excessive loans. Our investment will focus on job creation and sustainable growth,” he said. Read more: BNP’s Mosharraf calls on people to unite for fair Feb election

BNP candidate from Chattogram-8 constituency Ershad Ullah, who was shot during an election campaign, has been airlifted to Dhaka for advanced medical treatment. He was brought from Chattogram to Dhaka by a helicopter on Friday afternoon and later admitted to Square Hospital in the capital, said BNP Chairperson’s Assistant Secretary A.B.M. Abdus Sattar. He said he visited Ershad Ullah on the directive of the party’s Acting Chairman. He said he also spoke with the injured leader’s family and attending physicians regarding his condition. Fakhrul slams govt for creating situation to derail polls BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman later inquired about Ershad Ullah’s health over the phone and expressed sympathy to his family. Earlier, on Wednesday Ershad Ullah was injured in a gun attack by armed miscreants during electioneering at East Bayezid Hamzarbagh (Chalitati) area in Chattogram.    

BNP has suspended three of its leaders in Sitakunda, Chattogram, over allegations of violating party discipline. In a press release issued on Friday, signed by party Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, the BNP said the action was taken for activities that went against the party’s policies and organisational principles. Fakhrul slams govt for creating situation to derail polls Those suspended are Kamal Kader, convener of the Sitakunda upazila unit of BNP, Md Morsalin, former president of Chattogram North District Jatiyatabadi Swechchhasebak Dal, and Korban Ali Sahed, member secretary of the Sitakunda upazila unit of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal. Their primary membership and all positions at different levels of the party have been suspended until further notice, the release added.