United News of Bangladesh

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed on Saturday expressed concerns that dealing with misinformation, rumours and the misuse of artificial intelligence will become more difficult as the next national election approaches. “It’s now the age of videos. These are made in such a way that people easily believe them. As the election gets closer, false or deliberately misleading information and rumours will spread using artificial intelligence. It will become a real challenge to tackle them,” he said while speaking at a seminar in the capital’s Banani area. The BNP leader said there is a campaign against their party, labelling it as anti-reform. “I don’t know whether I should call it a rumour,” he said. Salahuddin, a BNP Standing Committee member, said the truth is that BNP is sincerely working with the Consensus Commission on reform issues as BNP was the first to raise the topic of state restructuring and presented a 32-point reform outline. “We are the ones who are always making compromises, bringing together laws that can be implemented, and offering solutions. We are only talking about solutions,” the BNP leader said. He alleged that a section of people is twisting, damaging, and insulting the spirit of mass uprisings and spreading different kinds of propaganda in Bangladesh. “The result is that we are insulting the history of our democratic struggle. When we do this, we give space to fascism. I don’t think anyone in our country wants that.” Salahuddin also criticised misleading online content, especially on YouTube. “There are a few YouTubers who create such content. In some videos, I see my photo is shown, but my voice or words are not there.” Constitutional amendment sees progress, stalemate over Upper House continues: Salahuddin He said the YouTubers also use photos of BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and other party leaders to make thumbnails, but the actual content has nothing from their statements. The BNP leader said these content creators use titles or thumbnails that do not match the actual speech. “It’s like they are playing with the nation. Their subscribers belong to a certain group. They believe whatever that group says. There’s a saying — ‘whatever you write becomes the truth’. That’s what we are seeing now,” he added. No scope for electoral alliance with Jamaat, door not closed for NCP: BNP’s Salahuddin In Bangladesh’s political culture, Salahuddin said, the nation was united before August 5. “But after that, all the brothers have gone their separate ways. Now we are fighting among ourselves, while those in Delhi are sitting back and enjoying the comfort.”  

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami’s Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman was admitted to a hospital in the capital on Saturday evening. According to the party press wing, Dr Shafiqur’s physical condition is stable, as his blood pressure and sugar levels are under control. The party urged all to pray for his quick recovery. Earlier in the day, Dr Shafiqur Rahman suddenly fell ill while delivering the presidential address at the party’s national rally held at Suhrawardy Udyan in the capital. Despite feeling unwell twice during his speech, he chose to complete it while seated on the stage. Dr Shafiqur collapsed around seven and a half minutes into his address at the rally, which was organised to press home the party’s seven-point demand. He later resumed his speech from a sitting position even though a doctor present on the stage reportedly advised him against continuing his address. “As long as Allah grants me life, I will continue to fight for the people, InshaAllah. My struggle will persist until the liberation of the people of Bengal is achieved,” the Jamaat Ameer said.  

NCP Chief Organiser (north) Sarjis Alam on Saturday called for a strong resistance against ‘Mujibism’, asserting that legal measures alone are not enough to confront it. “We cannot fight ‘Mujibism’ through legal means alone. We must break it economically, politically and culturally,” Sarjis said while addressing Jamaat-e-Islami’s national rally at Suhrawardy Udyan in the capital. He alleged that the ‘conspiracy of Mujibism’ is still active in Bangladesh, with strongholds such as Gopalganj and other regions across the country continuing to harbour such forces. “We do not want to see the law enforcement agencies as instruments of appeasement for those in power. Let us be clear: a Bangladesh-oriented state is not possible under the ‘Mujibist Constitution’ of 1972. We need a new constitution. We need elections for a new constituent assembly. We must secure the rights of women and our minority brothers and sisters,” he said. Calling for a broader unity beyond political lines, Sarjis urged all anti-authoritarian forces to join hands. “When it comes to resisting ‘Mujibism’ and tyranny, all forces must come together. Pro-India ‘Mujibist’ elements are once again becoming active in Bangladesh. There will be no space for any foreign dominance—be it Indian or otherwise—in this country.” Referring to the significance of August 5, he hinted at both past and upcoming political ambitions, stating, “Last year we had hopes for August 5, but those dreams remain unfulfilled. As August 5 approaches again, we reiterate—we don’t want a so-called civil transitional government. We want a post-uprising government.” He made pointed remarks demanding accountability, saying, “There must be a trial for the killer Hasina. The verdict must be delivered and implemented. We will not accept a judiciary loyal to any political party.” Ahead of the upcoming elections, Sarjis emphasised unity among anti-fascist forces. “Unity doesn’t mean blind loyalty. If anyone engages in extortion, we will speak out. If someone runs a syndicate, we will oppose it. If anyone engages in land grabbing, we will resist. But when it comes to fighting the Awami League, we will stand united,” he said.  

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed on Saturday said their party was not invited to the national rally organised by Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh at the historic Suhrawardy Udyan. “We have been asked why no one of us went to the event (of Jamaat) that is being held in Dhaka. How can we go if we are not invited?” he said while speaking at a seminar in the city’s Banani area. He also said even if an invitation had been extended, it would not necessarily mean the party would have attended. Meanwhile, Jamaat’s Nayeb-e-Ameer Dr Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher told the media that only the parties which support the 'proportional representation (PR)' system were invited to the rally. Fakhrul warns of rising tensions, urges govt to expedite elections Another senior Jamaat leader said since BNP is strongly against the PR system, inviting them would have created an uncomfortable situation for both sides. “Inviting BNP would have been uncomfortable for both parties,” the leader said, preferring not to be named. BNP and Jamaat were political allies for over two decades since 1999. They even ran a coalition government together from 2001-2006. However, in December 2022, the alliance was officially dissolved through mutual understanding. Although the two parties joined the anti-government movement before the 7 January 2024 national election, Jamaat later moved away from BNP’s simultaneous movement after the polls. Since August 5 last year, political analysts think Jamaat has been trying to present itself as BNP’s main rival in the political field. Jamaat Ameer collapses on stage during Jamaat rally Tensions between BNP and Jamaat have increased in recent months, especially ahead of the next general election. The situation worsened further after the recent killing incident at Mitford in Old Dhaka, which put more strain on their already tense relationship. Jamaat organised the rally to press home its 7-point demand, including holding the next national election under a PR system. The rally featured speeches by leaders from different political parties, including family members of martyrs, veterans of the 24th July movement, members of Jamaat’s executive council, Nayeb-e-Ameer, secretary and assistant secretary. Leaders from Islami Andolan Bangladesh, Hefazat-e-Islam, Gono Odhikar Parishad’s Nurul Haque Nur, NCP’s Member Secretary Akhter Hossen, Chief Organiser (Northern Region) Sarjis Alam, and the father of martyred Abrar also spoke at the rally.

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman collapsed on stage while delivering a speech during the party’s national rally at Suhrawardy Udyan in the capital on Saturday. The incident occurred seven and a half minutes into his speech, which was part of a public gathering organised to press home the party’s seven key demands. Following his collapse, Dr Shafiq resumed addressing the audience from a seated position on the stage. Massive turnout at Suhrawardy Udyan as Jamaat holding national rally Despite receiving advice from on-site physicians to refrain from continuing, Dr Shafiq said, “As long as Allah grants me life, I will continue to fight for people, InshAllah. My struggle will persist until the people of Bangladesh are liberated.” At the beginning of his remarks, he solemnly paid tribute to Shaheed Abu Sayed and other martyrs. The rally featured speeches from various political figures, including family members of martyrs, veterans of the 24th July movement, members of Jamaat’s executive council, Nayeb-e-Ameer, secretary, and assistant secretary. 2 Jamaat leaders killed in road accident on way to Dhaka rally Leaders from Islami Andolan Bangladesh, Hefazat-e-Islam, Gono Odhikar Parishad’s Nurul Haque Nur, NCP’s Member Secretary Akhter Hossen, Chief Organiser (Northern Region) Sarjis Alam, and the father of martyred Abrar also addressed the gathering.

NCP Member Secretary Akhter Hossen on Saturday alleged that there has been no visible progress in ensuring justice for the killings, enforced disappearances and political repression carried out during Sheikh Hasina’s rule, despite the months that have passed since the July mass uprising. Speaking at a discussion meeting at the Jatiya Press Club, held marking the anniversary of the July-August mass uprising, Akhter criticised the absence of any tangible legal or institutional action in response to past atrocities. “The hope of the mass uprising was to build a judicial framework capable of addressing the crimes of the past—oppression, disappearances, murder and even massacres. But even after all these months, we have not seen any visible advancement in this regard,” he said. He called on the government to take concrete steps towards realising the aspirations of the uprising. Highlighting constitutional shortcomings, Akhter said, “After the 1971 Liberation War, we received the 1972 Constitution, but it failed to deliver the nation of equality, dignity, and justice we aspired to. The economic rights of the people still lack constitutional recognition.” NCP convener vows to resist ‘fascism, Mujibism’, urges people to stay vigilant He claimed that the existing Constitution was drafted to concentrate state power in the hands of one individual. “This is why we have not seen any balance of power over the last five decades. There is now a necessity for a truly democratic constitution.” Proposing a new constitutional framework, he said, “A new constitution should be formulated through an elected Constituent Assembly and must be protected from being altered at the will of a single political party. It should be based on the consensus of the ruling party, the opposition, and the people.” Akhter also stressed the importance of unity among anti-fascist political forces, warning against internal divisions that stem from political competition and rivalries. “This was not the vision of the uprising. We wanted a Bangladesh free from the politics of vengeance, hatred, and muscle power—where a humane and citizen-focused government addresses the people’s real problems.” Akhter cautioned against reducing the scope of the uprising to a small group of political actors, urging inclusivity. “The 2024 mass uprising must not be owned by a single party. It belongs to all of us. By equally embracing all anti-fascist forces, we can move forward toward our shared goals.” Chaired by Rafiqul Islam Bablu, chief coordinator of the Ganatantra Manch, the event, was addressed, among others, Saiful Haque, General Secretary of the Revolutionary Workers Party, and Mostafa Jamal Haider, Chairman of the Jatiya Party (Zafar).

Gono Odhikar Parishad President Nurul Haque Nur on Saturday said the interim government has failed to bring any meaningful change over the past eleven months, except reinstating BNP-Jamaat affiliates at various levels of administration. “If I had to rate their performance, I would give them a maximum of four or five out of ten,” he said addressing a discussion marking the anniversary of the July-August mass uprising, held at the Jatiya Press Club. The event, titled ‘Expectations of Mass Uprising and the Path to Democratic Transition in the Country’, was organised by Ganatantra Manch. Ganatantra Manch is a coalition comprising the Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal (JSD), Nagorik Oikya, Revolutionary Workers Party of Bangladesh, Ganasamhati Andolon, Bhasani Anusari Parishad, and Rastro Songskar Andolon. The discussion was primarily convened marking the police attack on Ganatantra Manch leaders and activists on January 19 last year. JaPa office vandalism: Court orders to file case against Nur, Rashed Nur said, “If we assess their (govt) activities over the past 11 months, I would give the government a maximum of four or five marks out of ten. Even that feels generous, as they have failed to bring about any visible change in the country.” He said they had fought for a change in the existing system, but it was disheartening that Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus and members of his advisory council had not met their expectations. Nur lamented that there had been no improvement in public services at healthcare centres, land offices, UNO offices, or DC offices. These offices were still operating under the influence of politically powerful individuals, whereas they had wanted this system to change, he added. Nur said the National Consensus Commission has also become ineffective. “Yet, we must reach a consensus on some fundamental reforms.” He proposed that the Upper House of a bicameral parliament should be formed under a Proportional Representation (PR) system to ensure representation of all political parties. “If this is done, dissenting voices will be present in Parliament. Otherwise, it will remain the same as before.” BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Ganasamhati Andolon Chief Coordinator Zonayed Saki, National Citizen Party (NCP) Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain, and Revolutionary Workers Party General Secretary Saiful Haque were, among others, present at the event.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Saturday urged the interim government to promptly move towards holding elections, warning that the situation is becoming increasingly complicated as time passes. “It seems the situation is getting more complicated with each passing day. Those who do not believe in democracy or a society free of exploitation are regrouping once again,” he said. Speaking at a discussion titled ‘Expectations of the Mass Uprising and the Path to Democratic Transition in the Country’ organised by Ganatantra Manch at the Jatiya Press Club, the BNP leader spoke about the nation's democratic future. Fakhrul urged the government to “identify the problems without unnecessary delay and engage in dialogue with political parties. Then, move forward towards elections. That seems to be the only way forward.” Referring to the aftermath of the August 5 regime fall, Fakhrul noted that it had opened a new opportunity to establish a democratic system in Bangladesh.  “It seems the situation is becoming more complicated. Those who do not believe in democracy, people’s progress, or politics aimed at building a just and exploitation-free society are once again forming alliances. The fascist forces that we were once able to oust are now quietly reorganising and conspiring to regain power.” Fakhrul slams attack on NCP rally, urges stern action against perpetrators Expressing concerns over rising incidents of mob rule, killings, muggings and enforced disappearances, Fakhrul warned, “If we lose this opportunity, Bangladesh will fall further behind. Every time, our people and youth give their lives to create an opening. It is unacceptable that we would squander such chances due to our own irresponsibility.” He stressed the importance of swiftly advancing reforms, the July Charter issue and election-related efforts, asserting that the sooner progress is made, the better it will be for the country. “There is no doubt that this responsibility lies with the interim government. But the longer the delay, the murkier the situation becomes. The forces opposed to uprisings and to Bangladesh itself are reuniting and working to destroy democracy once again.” Fakhrul expressed hope that interim government leader Dr Muhammad Yunus would be able to unite the nation and lead it towards achieving the common goal. Labeling the BNP as a democratic party, Fakhrul stated, “We want to take responsibility for running the state through elections and build a welfare-oriented state. Just as we have overcome obstacles in the past, no barrier can stop us in the days ahead.” Fakhrul said, “The 1971 and independence are at the heart of our philosophy. There can be no compromise there, nor in our commitment to democratic governance. Through dialogue, tolerance and acceptance of differing views, we believe we can reach a point where we can re-establish a truly democratic system.” Zonayed Saki, Chief Coordinator of Ganosamhati Andolan; Nurul Haque Nur, President of Gono Odhikar Parishad (GOP); Akhtar Hossain, Member Secretary of the National Citizen Party (NCP); and Saiful Haque, General Secretary of the Revolutionary Workers Party were, among others, present.

Suhrawardy Udyan turned into a sea of people by midday on Saturday as Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami is holding its first-ever solo national rally at the historic venue, drawing tens of thousands of leaders, activists and supporters from across the country. The much-hyped gathering marks a significant political moment for the party since the country’s independence, as it seeks to reassert its presence ahead of the upcoming national election. The rally, scheduled to officially begin at 2:00pm, party Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman in the chair. Jamaat’s key demands at the rally include ensuring free, fair and peaceful elections with a level playing field, initiating fundamental political reforms, introducing the July charter and adopting a proportional representation (PR) system for national elections. Crowds began gathering at the venue from Thursday night, with early arrivals performing their Fajr prayers at the field. On Saturday morning, large processions of Jamaat members were spotted marching from various parts of Dhaka towards Suhrawardy Udyan, chanting slogans in support of the rally. Many activists were also seen crowding the city’s metro rail network. Meanwhile, Jamaat-e-Islami members distributed flyers following Jumma prayers on Friday in front of mosques across the country, including in the capital, to mobilise further public support. At a press conference on Thursday, party leaders announced that they had invited representatives from other political parties, including the BNP, Nationalist Democratic Movement (NCP), and Islami Andolan Bangladesh, to attend and speak at the rally. Jamaat’s 'National Rally': Activists march towards Suhrawardy Udyan The event comes at a politically tense time, following the recent attack on an NCP rally in Gopalganj, allegedly by ruling Awami League activists and its banned student wing, Chhatra League. The rally began at 9:40am on Saturday with a cultural programme hosted by Saifullah Mansur and conducted by the Saimum Cultural Group, featuring performers from various divisions. Even before the official commencement, the field was reportedly full, with some senior leaders taking refuge in the adjacent Ramna Park due to the overflow of attendees. UNB correspondents on the ground noted signs of discomfort among participants due to the heat, with several individuals reportedly falling ill. Groups of attendees were seen resting under trees in Ramna Park to escape the scorching sun. Jamaat claims this is the largest solo political gathering in its history. After nearly a month of preparation, the party estimated that over one million people would attend. While Jamaat had previously joined joint rallies at Suhrawardy Udyan alongside the BNP, this marks its first major solo political demonstration at the historic venue. Positioning the rally as a prelude to the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election, Jamaat leaders are calling for “national unity” and the establishment of a “welfare state.” Dr Shafiqur Rahman is expected to deliver a speech urging unity based on a seven-point demand. To accommodate the massive turnout and ensure basic services, organisers have set up over 500 temporary toilets, 1,000 water taps, 15 medical booths, 15 parking zones, and thousands of chairs at the venue. Around 6,000 volunteers have been deployed for logistics and security duties. 2 Jamaat leaders killed in road accident on way to Dhaka rally Besides, more than 400 loudspeakers and over 50 giant LED screens have been installed at major points of Dhaka to broadcast the event. Thousands of Jamaat supporters have travelled to the capital in buses, trains and launches. The party has issued a public apology for any traffic congestion or temporary inconveniences caused by the gathering.

Two leaders of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami were killed and at least eight others injured in a road accident in Bhanga upazila of Faridpur district early Saturday on their way to attend the party’s rally in Dhaka. The deceased were identified as Maulana Abu Sayeed, 55,  ameer of  Jamaat’s Dacope upazila unit and Mohammad Amanat Sheikh, 55, son of Md Ismail Sheikh, both hailing from Bani Shanta area of Dacope upazila in Khulna. Bhanga police station Officer-in-Charge Mohammad Ashfaq Hossain said the accident occurred around 5am on Dhaka-Khulna highway when a group of Jamaat leaders and activists was travelling from Khulna to Dhaka in a mini coach to attend the party’s national rally scheduled for this afternoon at Suhrawardy Udyan in the capital. The OC said a Dhaka-bound Royal Express bus from Khulna rammed the mini coach from behind when it made a break on the highway at Bhanga roundabout, leaving the two Jamaat leader dead on the spot. Jamaat’s 'National Rally': Activists march towards Suhrawardy Udyan On information, Bhanga police, highway police, and members of the fire service rushed to the scene and carried out rescue operation. The injured were taken to Faridpur Medical College Hospital and Bhanga Health Complex. The bus and the bodies were taken into custody by Bhanga Highway Police.