United News of Bangladesh

Chief Adviser Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus on Friday told BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman that if preparations are completed in time, the next general election could be held in the week preceding Ramadan in 2026, rather than in early April. However, in that case, significant progress would need to be made by then regarding reforms and the trial of the mass killings during the July-August mass uprising, said a joint statement from the Chief Adviser and Acting BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman following their meeting in London. It said the meeting between Tarique and Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus was held in a very cordial atmosphere. The statement said Tarique Rahman proposed to the Chief Adviser that the national election be held before Ramadan next year. Party Chairperson “Begum Khaleda Zia also believes that holding the election during that time would be appropriate.” Prof Yunus-Tarique meeting in London ends  “The Chief Adviser said he has already announced that the election will be held in the early April next year. If all preparations are completed, it may even be possible to hold the election in the week before the start of Ramadan in 2026. But, in that case, sufficient progress would need to be made by then regarding reforms and the trial,” the joint statement reads. It said Tarique welcomed the Chief Adviser’s position and thanked him on behalf of the party. “The Chief Adviser also thanked Mr Tarique Rahman for the fruitful discussion.”  Earlier, the high-stake meeting between Professor Yunus and Tarique ended after nearly one and a half hours of discussion on various crucial issues ahead of the general election. The meeting began at the Dorchester Hotel in London at 2pm Bangladesh time on Friday and continued until 3:30pm (BST), said BNP media cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan. The meeting was scheduled to end at 4pm but concluded half an hour earlier than planned. Earlier, National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman and the CA’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam received Tarique Rahman upon his arrival at the hotel around 1:50pm.

The much-hyped meeting between Chief Adviser Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus and BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman ended after nearly one and half hours of discussions on various crucial issues ahead of the general election in Bangladesh. The meeting began at the Dorchester Hotel in London at 2pm, Bangladesh time, on Friday and continued till 3:30 pm (BST) said BNP media cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan. The meeting was scheduled to end at 4 PM but concluded half an hour earlier than planned. Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam and BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury are likely to brief reporters about the outcome of the much-talked-about parley. Earlier, National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman and CA’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam received Tarique Rahman upon his arrival at the hotel around 1:50pm. BNP media cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan said Tarique, accompanied by BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury and International Affairs Adviser Humayun Kabir, left his London residence around 1pm for the meeting venue. Prof Yunus-Tarique meeting: What may dominate agenda? Several hundred leaders and activists from the BNP’s UK Chapter, who had gathered in front of The Dorchester earlier in the morning, warmly welcomed Tarique as he arrived. Meanwhile, Dr Khalilur Rahman and BNP leader Amir Khosru also held a separate meeting at The Dorchester Hotel, said Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder. BNP media cell convener Dr Moudud Hossain Alamgir Pavel said Amir Khosru will brief reporters about the meeting between the Chief Adviser and the BNP Acting Chairman. The high-profile meeting has already sparked significant interest in the country’s political arena.  All eyes are now on London, as many see this as a potential turning point in Bangladesh’s political landscape ahead of the upcoming election. BNP senior leaders and political analysts believe several key issues, including the election timeline, proposed reforms, the July Charter, justice for the victims of the July–August mass uprising, a safe and orderly transfer of power, ratification of decisions made by the interim government, a dignified exit strategy for the interim administration, and the possible return of Tarique Rahman to Bangladesh, were supposed to be discussed at the meeting. BNP leaders consider this meeting a significant step towards resolving the deadlock over the election schedule, suggesting that adjusting the timeline could be a central issue in the talks.    

A high-stake political meeting between Chief Adviser Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus and BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has officially begun in London, amid hopes for a breakthrough in the ongoing political crisis ahead of the general election. The meeting began at the Dorchester Hotel in London at 2:00 pm Bangladesh time on Friday, said Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder. The meeting is scheduled to end at 4pm (BST). The two-hour meeting—expected to be one-on-one but open to expansion if the leaders choose—comes at a time of rising tension over the timing of the next national election. National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman, along with Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam, received Tarique Rahman upon his arrival at the hotel around 1:50 pm. BNP media cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan said, Tarique, accompanied by BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury and International Affairs Adviser Humayun Kabir, left his London residence around 1:00 p.m. for the meeting venue. Several hundred leaders and activists from the BNP’s UK Chapter, who had gathered in front of The Dorchester earlier in the morning, warmly welcomed Tarique as he arrived. Meanwhile, Dr Khalilur Rahman and BNP leader Amir Khosru also held a separate meeting at The Dorchester Hotel, said Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder. BNP media cell convener Dr. Moudud Hossain Alamgir Pavel said Amir Khosru will brief reporters on the outcome of the meeting between the Chief Adviser and the BNP Acting Chairman. The high-profile meeting has already sparked significant interest in the country’s political arena. All eyes are now on London, as many see this as a potential turning point in Bangladesh’s political landscape ahead of the upcoming election. BNP senior leaders and political analysts believe several key issues are likely to be raised. These include the election timeline, proposed reforms, the July Charter, justice for the victims of the July–August mass uprising, a safe and orderly transfer of power, ratification of decisions made by the interim government, a dignified exit strategy for the interim administration, and the possible return of Tarique Rahman to Bangladesh. Prof Yunus-Tarique meeting: What may dominate agenda? “This is going to be a very important meeting for Bangladesh ahead of the election,” said CA’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam. “One of them is the chief of the interim government, and the other is the chief of the largest political party of Bangladesh.”                      The meeting follows Professor Yunus’ recent national address, in which he announced that the 13th general election would be held in the first half of April next year. The BNP, which has repeatedly demanded the election be held by December this year, reacted with disappointment, calling the decision unilateral and unrealistic. BNP leaders consider this meeting a significant step towards  resolving the deadlock over the election schedule, suggesting that adjusting the timeline will be a central issue in the talks. BNP insiders believe Tarique Rahman will argue that holding the election in April is not practical, citing weather conditions, Ramadan, and public examinations. A compromise date in January or February may be proposed, should the Chief Adviser show willingness. Another sensitive issue is the possible return of Tarique Rahman to Bangladesh, ending his 17 years of exile in London. Prof Yunus-Tarique meeting to usher in a fresh breeze for democracy: Rizvi

Communist Party of Bangladesh (CPB) General Secretary Ruhin Hossain Prince on Thursday termed the proposed April timeline for the national election as “unnecessary delay,” and reiterated his party’s demand, shared by other democratic forces, to hold the polls within December. “Any delay in the election may allow regressive forces to re-emerge,” he said while addressing a meet the press event at the Khulna Press Club. Prince clarified that CPB has no disagreement over the formation of relevant institutions or judicial matters concerning the polls. Rizvi urges govt to act on dengue surge, Covid variant threat "All necessary institutional steps must be taken to ensure a free and credible election, and judicial procedures must be made visible. We firmly believe that it is possible to conclude the election by December if these are done in time," he added. He warned that pushing back the election might help hegemonic powers implement their agendas, further delaying the electoral process. Commenting on the upcoming meeting between BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman and the chief adviser Yunus in London, the CPB leader noted, “Now the ball is in the government’s court.” On the issue of banning the Awami League, this CPB leader said that they do not support banning any political party through executive orders. “However, the Awami League has shown no remorse for the massacres it has committed.” He added that the party (AL) has lost the moral right to speak in the country’s political arena. “If elections are not held swiftly, regressive forces will get the opportunity to rise again,” he cautioned. Meanwhile, the CPB leader announced a Dhaka–Chattogram road march scheduled for June 27 and 28, protesting the government's reported decision to hand over the management of corridor projects and Chattogram port terminals to foreign companies.

As Chief Adviser Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus and BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman prepare for a formal meeting in London on Friday, a deep interest is building over the possible agenda and outcomes of the much-discussed dialogue between the two leaders. The meeting is scheduled to take place at the Dorchester Hotel in London from 9:00am to 11:00am local time. BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has already arrived in London ahead of the meeting. It remains unclear, however, whether the discussion will be held one-on-one. The high-profile meeting has already sparked significant curiosity in the country’s political arena. All eyes are now on London as many view this meeting as a potential turning point in Bangladesh’s political landscape ahead of the upcoming general election. BNP and other political parties hope the discussions will help resolve the ongoing political crisis surrounding the election and other key national issues. Although Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam said the agenda would be set by the two leaders themselves, BNP senior leaders and political analysts believe several core issues are likely to be raised. These include the election timeline, reforms, the July Charter, justice for the victims of the July–August mass uprising, a safe and orderly transition of power, ratification of decisions made by the interim government, a dignified exit strategy for the interim administration, and the potential return of Tarique Rahman to Bangladesh. The meeting comes in the wake of Professor Yunus’ recent national address, where he announced that the 13th general election would be held in the first half of April next year. The BNP, which has persistently demanded the election be held by December this year, reacted with disappointment, terming the decision unilateral and unrealistic. BNP leaders view this meeting as a significant step towards resolving the impasse over the election schedule, suggesting that adjusting the timeline will be a central issue in the talks. All eyes now on Prof Yunus-Tarique talks amid strained BNP-govt ties “In the meeting, Tarique Rahman will clearly explain why April is not a suitable time for elections and why December would be more appropriate. However, if the Chief Adviser is open to considering February as a compromise, there may be room for flexibility,” said a BNP Standing Committee member, speaking on condition of anonymity.  He said Tarique Rahman may not object to an election held in January or February next year, before the start of Ramadan. The potential return of Tarique Rahman is also likely to be addressed, possibly paving the way for his return after 17 years in exile in London. There is a growing speculation within BNP ranks and on social media that he may return before 5 August this year. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir recently said Tarique Rahman would return “soon.” Meanwhile, Home Affairs Adviser Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury told journalists on Thursday that there is no legal barrier to Tarique Rahman’s return. “He is a citizen of Bangladesh and can return at any time he wishes,” he said. Political analysts stressed that there is little room for failure in this historic meeting. They warned that unsuccessful talks could further deepen the ongoing political crisis. In the interest of national stability, they advised against disclosing the meeting’s details—such as discussion points, disagreements, and outcomes—too early, as it could spark conspiracy theories and derail initiatives intended for public benefit. Instead, they suggested that decisions be implemented gradually through formal processes. Contacted, BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed said as this is a top-level meeting between Prof Yunus and Tarique, all major national concerns are expected to be raised, particularly the setting of a suitable date for the general election. He said the importance of a neutral government, adherence to the rule of law, respect for court rulings, national security, and broader political considerations would also be discussed with much importance. “Reforms may also be a discussion point. We are approaching this with a positive mindset. We hope a nationally acceptable solution or decision will emerge from this high-level meeting,” the BNP leader said. Salahuddin suggested the meeting could ease political tensions and bridge key differences. Responding to whether the Chief Adviser might be persuaded to bring the election date forward from April, he said, “We are hopeful that once the two leaders meet, this issue—and many others—will be resolved through constructive dialogue.” He expressed optimism that Professor Yunus would revise the proposed schedule and agree to a more pragmatic timeline, taking into account weather conditions, Ramadan, and public examinations. BNP Standing Committee member Dr AZM Zahid Hossain said, “The uncertainty and confusion surrounding democracy and elections in Bangladesh—the dark clouds that have formed—will begin to clear through this meeting.” He voiced hope that the meeting would lay the groundwork for justice, urgent reforms, prompt election, and bringing back the laundered money to rebuild the country. BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said the people are deeply engaged in the unfolding discussions and eagerly awaits the two leaders’ positions on reforms, the election, its timing, and any consensus reached on these critical matters. He anticipated a positive outcome that could promote peace and stability. The BNP leader also hoped that the meeting would help find constructive solutions to the country’s pressing political challenges. Political analyst and University of Dhaka Professor of Political Science Dr Kazi Mohammad Mahbubur Rahman said he believes the outcome will be positive. “I expect both sides will reach an understanding through discussion,” he said. “There is no room for failure. If the talks fail, multiple crises could emerge. But we believe that while differences are natural in talks, both sides will ultimately prioritise national interest, make concessions, and reach agreements. The entire nation is hopeful for such a resolution,” he observed.

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Thursday expressed deep concern over the fresh spread of dengue and a deadly variant of Covid-19, urging the government to take immediate and visible steps, including equipping district-level hospitals with necessary medicines and equipment, to tackle the emerging health risks. “Ensuring the safety and saving the lives of people is the main responsibility of the government. I have seen that they have taken some steps, but they should take more extensive and visible measures as both dengue and a new variant of Covid-19 are spreading across the country,” he said. Rizvi made the remarks while talking to reporters at the BNP’s Nayapaltan central office. He said 288 people have been infected with dengue, with 261 of them in the Barishal division alone. Of the 261 dengue patients in Barishal division, the BNP leader said 202 were reported in just Barguna district. As dengue spreads like an epidemic in a particular district, Rizvi said the government should form a taskforce on an emergency basis and declare the district an emergency service area. “I want to ask the government why they are not taking such steps.” He said a new variant of Covid-19—five times deadlier than previous variants like Delta and Omicron—has been spreading in Bangladesh and neighbouring countries. “So, the people want to see the government take visible steps against this health hazard.” The BNP leader said people across the country also want to know whether hospitals at the grassroots level are equipped with adequate medicines and equipment to deal with dengue and a potential Covid-19 outbreak. He urged the government and the Ministry of Health to play a proactive role in taking the necessary steps to tackle the spread of dengue and coronavirus. About the meeting between Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus and BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman scheduled for Friday in London, Rizvi said the people are very interested in the discussions and is keeping a close watch on what they talk about regarding reforms, the election, its timing and any possible understanding they may reach on these crucial issues. “These matters are now widely discussed across Bangladesh, and people expect they will be resolved through this meeting. They also anticipate that a positive message will emerge from this high-level meeting, and it is absolutely essential,” he said.   Rizvi said the meeting, set to begin at 9am (London time) on Friday between the Chief Adviser and Tarique, will help ensure peace and stability in the country. “We wish the meeting every success. It is very important for taking the country forward with a permanent shape of democratic system… this meeting is highly significant and will play an important role in advancing the national election, reforms, and the overall democratic process,” he said. The BNP leader also hoped that the meeting will help find a positive solution to the key issues of contention. Referring to the matter of former Awami League minister Saifuzzaman Chowdhury’s assets being seized in the UK, he alleged that a certain quarter is spreading propaganda about the Chief Adviser’s visit to Britain in an attempt to divert public attention from their misdeeds. The BNP leader said only one family and a clique within the Awami League have looted the nation’s wealth over the past 16 years and laundered it abroad. Prof Yunus-Tarique meeting to usher in a fresh breeze for democracy: Rizvi He demanded appropriate action against those living in luxury overseas after looting public money through mega projects like the Padma Bridge, flyovers, and quick rental power plants. “Should a party that steals public money be allowed to do politics? They siphoned off huge sums over the past 16 years. They must be tried for looting and for the deaths of the youth and children.” Rizvi also said India has been continuing the push-in of its citizens into Bangladesh through various border points. “India pushed in its citizens identifying them as foreigners along the borders even yesterday (Wednesday).” Rizvi questions govt preparedness over new COVID variant spread The BNP leader further alleged that the Chief Minister of India’s Assam has been making provocative remarks against Bangladesh daily. “Whether this is part of a larger master plan is now a question among the people of Bangladesh and the international community. Why is India suddenly pushing people--none of whom are Bangladeshi citizens-- into our countrty?” He called upon India to show restraint, stating that these actions challenge Bangladesh’s independence and sovereignty. “The people of Bangladesh will not accept this.”  

Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD), the student wing of BNP, has approved new committees for its units in 19 private universities in the capital. The newly formed committees have been approved by the JCD’s Private University Unit President Md Abu Horaira and General Secretary M Rajibul Islam Talukder Bindu, said a press release on Thursday. At the Brac University JCD Unit, Naimur Rahman has been made President while Akaid Hossain Bijoy Senior Vice-President, Mahmud Hasan Foysal General Secretary, Zidan Khan Senior Joint Secretary, and Mujtaba Mahbub Pranto Organising Secretary. Md Abdul Halim has been appointed President of the JCD unit at Atish Dipankar University of Science and Technology with Marzan Ahmed Ucchas as Senior Vice-President, Sagor Hossain as General Secretary, Mithun Minhaj as Senior Joint Secretary and Taisha Afroze Muna as Organising Secretary. Rashed Md Nafis Hridoy has been named President of the JCD unit at the Ahsanullah University of Science and Technology while Faruk Abdullah Naeem (Siam) as Senior Vice-President, Md Lisanul Alam as General Secretary, Sabbir Ahmed as Senior Joint Secretary, and Tahsin Ahmed as Organising Secretary. At the University of Asia Pacific, Mehedi Hasan Shuvo has been selected as President of the JCD unit while Sheikh Golam Mahbub Himel as Senior Vice-President, S M Salman Farshi as General Secretary, Md Ashik Billah as Senior Joint Secretary, and A. Arian as Organising Secretary. The JCD unit at the Southeast University will be led by Md Yasin Arafat as Convener, with Md Moniruzzaman (Sad) serving as Senior Joint Convener and Md Nazmus Sakib as Member Secretary. At the Northern University Bangladesh, Imranul Hasan Rimu will serve as Convener of the JCD unit, alongside Rejwan Mondol Reza as Senior Joint Convener and Shahriar Kabir Mikail as Member Secretary. Fakhrul-led BNP team to begin China tour on June 24 At the BGMEA University of Fashion and Technology, Md Mubin Mollah will serve as President of the JCD unit, with Rejwan Rahman Tamim as Senior Vice-President, Kazi Md Hasibul Hasan as General Secretary, Arman Pasha as Senior Joint Secretary, and Tajwar Hasin Juboraj as Organising Secretary. Yasin Arafat Choton will lead the JCD unit at the World University of Bangladesh as President, accompanied by Md Abdullah Al Mamun as Senior Vice-President, Jisan Ahmed as General Secretary, Md Sohel Rana as Senior Joint Secretary, and Md Jisan as Organising Secretary. The JCD unit at the Prime Asia University will be headed by Tahsin Md Chowdhury (Omio) as President, with Nur Mohammad Kawser serving as Senior Vice-President, Md Fahim Bokshi as General Secretary, Md Rakibul Islam as Senior Joint Secretary and Shamima Akter as Organising Secretary. At the Presidency University, Md Habibullah Akand will serve as President of the JCD unit, with Maruf Shaharia as Senior Vice-President, Gazi Ashiqur Rahman as General Secretary, Mitro Ghosh as Senior Joint Secretary, and Shahed Mallik (Shanto) as Organising Secretary. Syed Rezwan Rashid has been appointed Convener of the JCD unit at the International University of Business Agriculture and Technology (IUBAT), joined by D S Tawhid Ahmed (Swapnil) as Senior Joint Convener and Md Golam Sarwar Rabbi as Member Secretary. At Bangladesh University of Business and Technology (BUBT), Al Amanat Kabir Shaik will serve as President of the JCD unit, with Md Abdul Alim Pias as Senior Vice-President, Ratul Talukder as General Secretary, Md Al Shahariar Rafi as Senior Joint Secretary, and Md Nahid Hasan as Organising Secretary. Dudul Talukder has been named President of the JCD unit at the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB), alongside Md Munif Sarkar Shad as Senior Vice-President, Shabab Anwar as General Secretary, Md Mofradul Islam Sajjad as Senior Joint Secretary, and Jannat Ara Payel as Organising Secretary. At the Bangladesh University, Imam Hasan Jewel has been made President while Abdullah Al Noman Sikder Senior Vice-President, Abdullah Al Noman General Secretary, Md Sajidur Rahman Soumik Senior Joint Secretary, and Limon Torofdar Swadhin Organising Secretary. At The People’s University of Bangladesh, Roni Barman has been made President while Shibbir Ahmed Sojib Senior Vice-President, Hasan Shahriar Shaon General Secretary, Mostofa Mahbub Sourav Senior Joint Secretary, and Fatima Akter Organising Secretary. The JCD unit at the Manarat International University will be led by Mainul Hasan Nishat as President, accompanied by Md Ilias Hawlader as Senior Vice-President, A R Nazmul as General Secretary, Md Hasibul Islam as Senior Joint Secretary and Md Raihan Chowdhury as Organising Secretary. At Gono Bishwabidyalay (Gono University), Md Nirjon has been made President while Md Mamun Hossain Khan Senior Vice-President, Md Asadur Rahman Bijoy General Secretary, Md Abdullah Al Raivar Senior Joint Secretary and Sabuj Ahmed Organising Secretary. The JCD unit at Asian University will be led by Md Antor as President and Musa Ibrahim Onik as General Secretary. At the City University, Yalid Naeem has been made President while Marzuk Ahmed Himel Senior Vice-President, Md Linkon Mia General Secretary, Mustafizur Rahman Senior Joint Secretary, and Toufiq Ahmed Piyal Organising Secretary.

A high-level delegation of the BNP, led by its Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, is scheduled to embark on a visit to China on June 24 at the invitation of the Communist Party of China (CPC). “The CPC extended a formal invitation for the visit, which is expected to focus on strengthening bilateral ties and exchanging party-level experiences,” said BNP media cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan. He said BNP Standing Committee Members Mirza Abbas, Gayeshwar Chandra Roy and Begum Selima Rahman, as well as Media Cell Convener Professor Dr Moudud Hossain Alamgir Pavel, will be part of the delegation. Sayrul said some other senior BNP leaders may be included in the delegation. “The list of the BNP delegates will be finalised soon.” Party insiders said the visit underscores BNP’s intent to deepen relations with China, which remains a key development partner for Bangladesh. They believe the visit may play a crucial role in bolstering diplomatic engagement with Beijing, especially in the context of a possible future political transition in Bangladesh. BNP leaders also view the trip as part of a broader effort by the Chinese government to build and maintain relationships across the political spectrum in Bangladesh. Following the fall of the Sheikh Hasina regime on August 5 last year, China has intensified diplomatic engagement with various political parties in the country, including the BNP and several Islamic parties. On February 24, a 21-member ‘unique’ delegation consisting of leaders from eight political parties, including the BNP, visited China on an 11-day trip aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and enhancing cooperation between the two countries. BNP Standing Committee member Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan led the delegation. Chinese authorities stated that the visit was part of their strategy to strengthen multiparty relations with Bangladesh following the political changes in August. During the 11-day visit, the delegation held meetings with central and provincial leaders of the CPC in Beijing, Shaanxi and Yunnan.

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Wednesday expressed optimism that the expected meeting between Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus and their party acting Chairman Tarique Rahman in London will usher in a fresh breeze for democracy in Bangladesh. “I believe this meeting will be historic and bring a fresh breeze for Bangladesh’s democracy. This meeting is very important,” he told journalists during a briefing at BNP’s Nayapaltan central office. Rizvi said the entire nation is now looking towards the London meeting with great expectations, as the formal talks between Prof Yunus and Tarique are seen as a source of joy. He hoped that this meeting would play an important role in safeguarding and strengthening Bangladesh’s “unfortunate democracy”. Tarique Rahman to return home soon, says Fakhrul “This meeting is expected to resist the return of fascism and ensure that democracy is not destroyed by aggressive forces. It will be crucial in reinforcing and perpetuating democratic norms in the country,” the BNP leader said. Replying to a question, he reiterated BNP’s stance on holding general election in December, saying the party has already presented logical grounds for this timeline. “The people of the country also consider December to be the logical time for elections. Discussions are going on… we will know the outcome later,” Rizvi said. He is also hopeful that the existing national problems, including the timing of the election, can be resolved through this crucial meeting. Earlier on Tuesday, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir confirmed that Tarique Rahman is set to hold a formal meeting with Prof Yunus, who is currently visiting the United Kingdom, on June 13 (Friday) in London. Fakhrul urges interim govt to rethink about April election timing Talking to reporters at the BNP Chairperson’s Gulshan office, he said the meeting will take place at the hotel where the Chief Adviser is currently staying in London. Rizvi strongly criticised the neighbouring country, India, for what he said showing growing hostility towards Bangladesh and the continuing push-ins of people through the borders. “This neighbouring country is becoming dangerously antagonistic. Especially, regarding Sheikh Hasina’s downfall, they are turning increasingly aggressive,” he said. Labelling people as foreigners, Rizvi said incidents of push-in are happening every day through various borders Bhai India. “There are deliberate provocations and attempts to spark conflict. There’s now a surge in push-ins along the border. Is Bangladesh a dumping ground?” he questioned. He warned that if India tries to push people into Bangladesh by falsely identifying foreigners as Bangladeshis, the nation will not only protest but also resist. The BNP leader said India must remember that even a despotic ruler like Sheikh Hasina could not remain in power through oppression and persecution, as she was forced to flee the country in broad daylight. Rizvi expressed grave concern over the recent surge in COVID-19 cases in India and the detection of some cases in Bangladesh. “India has already reported 7,000 new infections, and cases are being reported in Bangladesh as well.” He urged the government to promptly take preventive measures, criticising the health ministry for its inadequate response. The BNP leader also mentioned that the dengue situation has worsened and is now threatening public health. “The government must work more closely with the public to combat the crisis,” he said. Rizvi expressed concern over growing road accidents during the Eid holidays, saying that nearly 57 people lost their lives due to reckless driving. “There was also increased criminal activity during Eid. The joy of Eid could not be fully realised due to law and order problems,” he said.  

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami’s central Nayeb-e-Ameer Prof Mujibur Rahman on Tuesday said students will no longer allow the repeat of past events, which is why his party is now demanding justice first, followed by reforms and then elections. Speaking at a rally organised by Jamaat’s Bagatipara upazila unit in Natore, he said, “In the past, oppressive regimes claimed, ‘it is my vote, I will give it to whoever I want.’ But in reality, they acted as if, ‘I will not cast mine only, will cast yours, too.’ People and students no longer want such elections. They won’t let it happen again. That’s why we are saying, justice first, then reforms and then elections.” During previous governments, he said, people witnessed how the Awami League-led government made a mockery of democracy in the name of elections. The Jamaat leader said MPs were elected without a vote in 2014 and in 2018, voting was completed the night before the election day while in the 2024 elections, the general public didn’t even show up at polling stations. Mujibur said voters were not needed, in some cases, candidates’ relatives cast votes on behalf of others. “Not only that, in the 2024 elections, candidates were hard to find. They (Awami League) staged the election using dummy candidates.” Nation does not want another ‘questionable election’: Jamaat Ameer Prof Mujibur also said Jamaat-e-Islami’s leadership must continue their work with greater dedication and sacrifice for the welfare of religion and the country. He affirmed the party’s commitment to fighting for fair elections. Referring to last year’s student protest, he said in the 2024 movement, they heard students chanting ‘We want justice.’ Similarly, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, are working to establish justice, he added. Nayeb-e-Ameer Mujibur further said, “Over the past 54 years, from 1971 to 2024, we have seen ideologies like nationalism, socialism and capitalism. None of these brought peace. We believe that only the laws of the Quran can ensure peace in both this life and the hereafter.” The event was also addressed by Jamaat’s Natore district Nayeb-e-Ameer Prof Md Yunus Ali, District Secretary Prof Md Sadequl Rahman, Assistant Secretary Md Atiqul Islam Russel and the party’s nominated candidate for Natore-1 (Lalpur–Bagatipara) constituency Maulana Md Abul Kalam Azad.