United News of Bangladesh

BNP senior leader Salahuddin Ahmed on Monday said their party is considering forming a greater political alliance ahead of the next national election, upholding the spirit of national unity. “We are thinking of forming a broader alliance with the parties we have joined in simultaneous movements and with others so that together we can overcome the electoral hurdle,” he said. Salahuddin, a BNP Standing Committee member, made the remarks while talking to reporters after paying homage to party founder Ziaur Rahman by placing wreaths at his grave along with leaders and activists of Jatiyatabadi Jubo Dal, marking its 47th founding anniversary. Replying to a question about what message they are sending through the meetings with potential candidates at the party chairperson’s Gulshan office, he said they are talking to all qualified candidates in every constituency as the party has more than one aspirant in most seats across the country. The BNP leader said these meetings are part of their efforts to ensure unity within the party and across the nation. “We want to convey a message aimed at maintaining unity within our party and fostering unity throughout the country.” Khosru renews call for political unity to restore democracy through elections Salahuddin emphasised that national unity is BNP’s greatest strength. “We are also sending a clear message so that no one takes the path of division. Our goal is to stay united and move forward together.” He said BNP is also working to reflect the aspirations of the country’s youths in its future plans. “Our party has embraced the dream of building a new Bangladesh inspired by the thoughts of the youth.” The BNP leader said party leaders have travelled across the country, listened to young people and learned about their views, and are now preparing programmes to translate their political vision into reality for rebuilding the country. Expressing the hope for a youth-led future, he said they believe the country will be driven by the energy and creativity of its young generation. “We hope Bangladesh will be based on employment, technology, and talent, as dreamt by the martyrs of our Liberation War and the July-August mass uprising.” Put aside differences, join polls: Fakhrul to all parties  Thousands of leaders and activists of Jatiyatabadi Jubo Dal, the youth wing of BNP, gathered at Zia’s grave premises and paid homage to the party founder on the occasion of their founding anniversary. They also offered a munajat seeking eternal peace for Zia’s soul and the wellbeing of the country and its people.

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin on Tuesday asked experts to recommend practical measures to effectively fight misinformation and disinformation ahead of the next national election as the misuse of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has now emerged as a global concern. “The misuse of AI has now become a global headache. Like any other tool, it can be used for both good and bad purposes—a doctor may use it to save lives, while a criminal may use it to commit crimes,” he said while addressing a workshop at the Election Training Institute (ETI) in the city. The workshop, titled ‘Integration of Artificial Intelligence in Upcoming National Parliament Election to Counter Misinformation and Disinformation’, was jointly organised by the EC’s IDEA and CBTEP projects. The CEC stressed the need for building a round-the-clock monitoring system to fight the misinformation and disinformation. “The Election Commission is taking steps to integrate AI technology to prevent AI misuse and ensure greater transparency in the electoral process,” he said. Election schedule to be unveiled in early December: CEC He said the system must be capable of identifying and countering false or misleading information that emerges even late at night. “This will be a 24-hour job,” he said, adding that the Election Commission needs to decide what kind of professionals will be involved, how quickly the information can be verified and which organisations will assist in this job to fight misinformation. “I don’t just want theoretical guidelines; we need a realistic plan — who will work, how many people will be required, and how we will collect information from remote areas,” the CEC told the participants. Expressing optimism, Nasir Uddin said the workshop will help the Commission formulate effective recommendations to combat electoral misinformation and make the upcoming 13th parliamentary election more credible and transparent. CEC hopes NCP won’t hinder democratic transition over ‘Water Lily’ row All four election commissioners Abdur Rahmanel Masud, Tahmida Ahmad, Md Anwarul Islam Sarker and Brig Gen (retd) Abdul Fazal Md Sanaullah and EC Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed were present at the event.

BNP acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has said he will return to Bangladesh 'soon and take part in the upcoming national election. “Perhaps, for some valid reasons, it hasn’t happened yet. But I think the time has come. InshAllah, I will return soon,” he said in an interview with the BBC Bangla on Monday. Tarique Rahman highlighted BNP’s strategies for the next election, the Awami League’s politics, the trial of its leaders and activists and the country’s election-centric political landscape during the interview. When asked if his return could happen before the election, Tarique said, “As a political worker, I have a natural and deep connection with elections. When there is an expected election, one that the people are waiting for, how can I stay away? I will do my best to be among the people during that people-expected election, InshAllah.” Reject cruelty, embrace humanity: Tarique Rahman Responding to a question about security concerns surrounding his return, Tarique said they have often heard various kinds of apprehensions from different people. Even from government quarters, concerns were expressed in different ways through various media, he said. Asked whether he would directly contest the next election, the BNP acting chairman said, “As I mentioned earlier, I am naturally a member of a political party, a political worker. Elections are essentially linked to political parties and political activists. Therefore, in an election where the people are engaged, I cannot remain distant. I must participate. InshaAllah, I will be present on the ground.” Responding to another question whether he would be seen as a prime minister candidate, Tarique said he thinks this is a decision for the people of Bangladesh. “It is not my decision; it will be decided by the people of Bangladesh.” Responding to a question whether he himself would take part in the election, Tarique replied, “Why wouldn’t I? Certainly, I will.” About the party’s stance, he said the party will decide. “How the party will handle it is the party’s decision.” Tarique Rahman urges people to unite for democracy, fair elections In response to another question whether BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia would play any role in the election and whether people could expect to see her actively involved, Tarique said, “If her physical ability allows, she will certainly play some roles.” Asked specifically whether this could mean her direct participation in the election, he replied, “I cannot say that right now... I just mentioned that it somewhat depends on her physical or medical condition.”

BNP senior leader Nazrul Islam Khan on Wednesday described the demand by some political parties for introducing a proportional representation (PR) election system in the next national election as ‘unrealistic and suspicious’.  “When such insistence is placed on this matter (PR), it creates doubts that this could be an unreasonable attempt, leading to serious negative consequences for holding the election,” he said. The BNP leader made the remarks while responding to a reporter’s question at a press conference at the party’s Nayapaltan central office. Nazrul, a BNP Standing Committee member, said those who are demanding PR are not clearly explaining what kind of system they want for the election. He questioned whether anyone had ever asked the people of the country about the PR system. “Just go to Keraniganj near Dhaka and tell someone there that we want to change the way you have been electing your representatives. Say that we want a new system where your vote will be for a party, not a person. The party will then choose the MPs. There won’t be any specific MP for your area,” Nazrul said, pointing at the parties demanding the PR system. Elections only way to restore political rights, resist fascism: Tarique He said the political parties should also tell people that they will not vote for any particular candidate in their area. “Have you told people in villages these things? Have you asked if they agree or not on the matter?” The BNP leader said some political parties were forcefully trying to impose the PR system on the voters despite its weak basis. Since ordinary people haven’t been involved in it or made aware of it, he said the political parties will not be able to create much trouble over the PR issue. Nazrul also questioned how the PR system could be introduced by discarding the traditional voting system without amending the constitution in parliament. “Even if you agree on introducing PR, you still can’t apply it in the coming election, because the constitution would need to be amended first. Only parliament has the authority to do that. So, if you want to introduce it at all, it would only be possible in the following election,” the BNP leader said. Nazrul said any political party or leader could have their own ideas, which might even be very good or groundbreaking, and there was no doubt about that. “But the question is, whether the idea is good or bad, whether it comes from a wise person or an ordinary one—unless it is accepted by the people, it cannot and should not be applied for the people,” he observed. People eagerly waiting to cast votes: Amir Khosru In Bangladesh, the BNP leader pointed out, debates have continued for years over whether people should cast their votes by stamping a ballot paper or by pressing a button on an EVM machine, yet no final decision has been reached on the matter. “But now you want to change the entire election system. People have always voted for individuals to represent them. But in the PR system, you will no longer vote for a specific person. No one will represent a particular area. The party will decide who becomes an MP—not the people,” he said. In the PR system, the BNP leader said, MPs will not belong to a specific constituency as they will be MPs of the whole country. “So if someone has a problem, who will they go to? That won’t be clear. This is such a major change, but you are not properly explaining it to the people, the real owners of the country,” he said.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Wednesday welcomed the announcement to hold the next national election in February 2026, saying the party sees it as a step towards restoring democracy in Bangladesh. “BNP welcomes the announcement made, setting February 2026 as the timeframe for the next election following the meeting between the party’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman and Chief Adviser Professor Dr Yunus in London. BNP believes this historic announcement will help overcome the political deadlock and pave the way for transition to democracy in Bangladesh,” he told a press conference at the BNP Chairperson’s Gulshan office in the capital. Mirza Fakhrul said BNP hopes that the government and the Election Commission will take all necessary measures to ensure that the upcoming election is free, fair, impartial and acceptable to all. He said BNP calls upon all political parties and the people to come forward and work collectively to make this election successful, thereby institutionalising democracy and forming an effective national parliament. Prof Yunus’ move clears confusion over next national election: Salahuddin “BNP is expressing its sincere thanks to the head of the interim government, Professor Dr Yunus, the members of the Advisory Council and all the members concerned who are involved in this process for their initiatives and necessary measures to smooth the path to democracy despite many adversities in the last one year, as well as expecting that the remaining work of reforming the state structure will be completed very soon,” he said. Mentioning that Prof Yunus announced the ‘July Proclamation’ on Tuesday, Fakhrul said his party also welcomes this proclamation. “BNP believes the commitments made by the political parties in this declaration will mark the beginning of a transformation into a new democratic Bangladesh. This will create an opportunity to build a truly progressive and prosperous Bangladesh, founded on equality, human values, and justice,” he said. Fakhrul said BNP once again pays tributes to those who sacrificed their lives in this struggle for democracy, sympathises with those who were injured, and prays to the Almighty for their quick recovery. CA Prof Yunus to write CEC to arrange national election in February The BNP leader said his party calls on the government to take measures for rehabilitation and good medical treatment for the victim families. He said BNP expresses its sincere thanks and gratitude to Tarique Rahman for successfully leading the democratic movement for eight long years. Fakhrul expressed BNP's heartfelt gratitude and greetings to all political parties, students, farmers, workers and people from all walks of life who participated in this struggle for democracy, including those who were martyred, injured, or maimed in it.

BNP senior leader Salahuddin Ahmed on Tuesday said all confusions about the next national election have been cleared through Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus’ announcement to send a letter to the Chief Election Commissioner to hold the polls in February next year. “He (Yunus) announced that he will send a letter to the Election Commission and the Commission will take the necessary steps to hold the election before the Ramadan in the first half of February 2026,” the BNP leader said. Talking to reporters in front of the BNP Chairperson’s Gulshan office after the Chief Adviser addressed the nation, Salahuddin also said the Election Commission will announce the schedule in due time. He said the whole nation and his party have been waiting for such an announcement from the Chief Adviser for a long time. “Through this announcement, the doubts that many people had about the election process in Bangladesh are now gone,” the BNP leader said. CA Prof Yunus to write CEC to arrange national election in February “With this, the confusion that many believed existed regarding the holding of the election in Bangladesh no longer remains. The entire nation will now move forward in an election-oriented environment,” Salahuddin said. He expressed the hope that the upcoming election would be free, fair, neutral and one of the most admired polls in the world. The BNP leader also urged the entire nation and all citizens to prepare for the next national election. Earlier, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus said that he, on behalf of the interim government, will send a letter to the Chief Election Commissioner so that the Election Commission can holds the national election before the next Ramadan in February. "Now it is our turn to fulfill our final duty - holding the election. As I address you on this great day, we will enter our final and most important chapter. We will now begin the process of handing over responsibility to an elected government," Prof Yunus said, referring to the upcoming 2026 election. In a televised speech, Prof Yunus expressed hope that the people of this country will be able to move forward in building a 'New Bangladesh' by successfully holding the election. July Declaration highlights people’s desire for good governance, fair polls, social justice Salahuddin said the Chief Adviser made two important announcements today: one about the July Charter and the other about the upcoming election. “We welcome both announcements.” He said the July Charter includes commitments that will be recognised constitutionally and officially by the state. “We have pledged to ensure its rightful place in the constitution.”

French Ambassador to Bangladesh Marie Masdupuy has expressed optimism that the next national election in Bangladesh will be inclusive with the participation of citizens, noting that the government is getting prepared for holding "free and fair" polls in the country.  "I'm confident that the Election Commission is going to do a great job. That's clearly their intention. So, hopefully, it will be as inclusive as possible," she said while responding to a question.  Talking to a small group journalists, including the UNB correspondent, Ambassador Masdupuy said it (inclusivity) all depends on the way it will be prepared. "Of course, we all know about the banning of the activities of one historical party of Bangladesh," Ambassador Masdupuy said, noting that "until this (political) organisation reforms itself, apologises and some of its leaders being tried, we understand it will be very difficult for them to participate in any election.  So, she added, inclusivity will involve the participation of the citizens and the support for as many political parties, including the small ones and independent parties (candidates). "This will be more inclusive." In May, the government issued a gazette notification banning all activities of the Bangladesh Awami League and its affiliated organisations under the Anti-Terrorism Act until the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) completes the trial of the party’s leaders and activists. EC moves to amend RPO ahead of general election The Ambassador said they are very happy that the interim government, under the wise leadership of Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, has been engaging and committing itself to prepare the scene to hold "free and fair" elections. She said they will support that efforts, including, if possible, by sending international, European observers because it is very important for Bangladesh to have this being dealt with very nicely and peacefully. Fakhrul alleges political plot to derail election using Mitford murder Chief Adviser Prof Yunus has already directed the law-enforcment agencies to complete all preparations by December this year for the upcoming parliamentary elections, likely to be held in February or April next year. On Sunday evening, Ambassador Masdupuy said democracy is about ‘liberty, equality, fraternity and inclusivity’, and noted that the country is now heading towards 'truly democratic elections’ under the ‘wise and remarkable’ leadership of Prof Yunus. “The road is paved with many obstacles but courage and determination will no doubt allow removing them,” she said. Talks on Airbus  Responding to a question on Airbus purchase, Ambassador Masdupuy said the discussions are still going on. "No, it's not stopped." The interim government is considering new purchases of Boeing aircraft from the United States as part of Bangladesh’s strategy to reduce the trade gap and avert the impact of a steep 35 percent tariff imposed by President Donald Trump which will be effective from August 1. "We want a fair and level playing field for everybody. And we think your national carrier needs to have both Airbus and Boeing in its fleet," she said, noting that it will provide the most diverse offer to the passengers of Biman Bangladesh Airlines.  In June, Airbus Executive Vice President Wouter van Wersch called on Chief Adviser Prof Yunus in London and said, “We have identified Bangladesh as a key priority country." Van Wersch said Airbus, which supplies 800 aircraft annually, also has expertise in manufacturing helicopters and fighter jets. Complete preparations by Dec for peaceful election: Prof Yunus to law enforcers Van Wersch said if Bangladesh decides to add Airbus to the Biman fleet, 85 per cent of the funding could be arranged through Export Credit Agency (ECA) financing. Relationship Remains Positive  Ambassador Masdupuy said they are very supportive of the current transition of the interim government, and they are keen to engage more with the government. "So, we understand that we need to be patient because of the review which is being done about many projects," she said, noting that they want to see them being more quickly implemented. "Our relationship is very good. It remains always very positive. We are engaged in all sorts of cooperation with Bangladesh, and we wish to see more," said the French envoy. The Ambassador reaffirmed France’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s development and strategic autonomy and announced upcoming cooperation in space technology, helping enhance Bangladesh`s sovereign capacity to monitor climate change through satellite data.

Though he has categorically ruled out the possibility of an electoral alliance with their party’s long-time ally Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin indicates that the door remains open for talks with the Nationalist Citizens’ Party (NCP) until the election schedule is announced. In an interview with UNB, Salahuddin expressed confidence that the interim government will hold the next national election by mid-February next year as he thinks various political parties are raising demands around the polls as part of their broader political strategies. He also urged the National Consensus Commission to conclude discussions on reform proposals within a reasonable timeframe, warning against unnecessary delays that could hinder the election process. “I don’t see any possibility of an electoral alliance with Jamaat-e-Islami. We had an alliance with them in the past as part of our political strategy, but we don’t feel the need to partner with Jamaat this time,” Salahuddin said. He said the BNP is focused on forming an electoral alliance and a national government with those who joined their simultaneous movement and democratic struggle. “Right now, we’re not considering anything beyond that.” When asked about a possible alliance with NCP, Salahuddin replied, “Discussions on political alliances will continue until the election schedule is announced. We’ll have to wait and see what happens.” He said all democratic parties will adopt different strategies ahead of the election. “So, let’s wait and see what strategy BNP ultimately chooses for the election and alliances.” He voiced frustration over the lengthy discussions by the National Consensus Commission on reform issues. “I think the discussion is being unnecessarily prolonged. In my opinion, it should have been concluded within a reasonable timeframe.” The BNP leader said there seem to be some shortcomings in how the meetings are conducted by the Consensus Commission, which is causing the whole process to become a time-consuming one. “I hope that the discussion would not continue for much longer. We should move towards a summary and conclusion," he said. Fakhrul welcomes Yunus’ directive, hopes for prompt election preparations by EC Salahuddin said there is significant development that the caretaker government system has almost been restored—only the Supreme Court’s review is pending. “We hope the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court will give a positive verdict on the review petition.” He said the people of Bangladesh agree that national elections should be held under a neutral caretaker government. “But, there is still debate over its structure or whether the immediate past Chief Justice should remain the first option for the Chief Adviser of the caretaker government.” The BNP leader said discussions on alternatives are still ongoing. “Our party and others will give our proposals, as will the Reform Commission in this regard. If no better option is agreed upon, the current structure will remain.” Salahuddin strongly opposed the idea of introducing a Proportional Representation (PR) system in the upcoming election, saying Bangladesh’s current political, social and electoral culture is not suitable for such a system. He argued that the PR system could disconnect voters from their direct representatives, discourage voter participation, and create instability by resulting in fragmented parliaments with no clear majority. The BNP leader emphasised that Bangladesh needs a functioning political structure based on direct elections where constituents can choose their own representatives. Salahuddin said Bangladesh is not ready for the Proportional Representation (PR) voting system. “It has never been practised here, and people are not familiar with it.” He explained that voters in Bangladesh prefer to vote for a person they know from their own area, not just for a political party. “In PR, even if a party gets more votes in a region, someone from another area may be selected, which does not reflect the people’s choice. This could discourage voters and weaken democracy.” Democracy hardly practised in Bangladesh: Fakhrul He also said that in other countries where PR works, their local governments are strong, but this is not applicable in Bangladesh. “Here, MPs are directly involved in development projects, so this system may not work well.” Another problem, he mentioned that independent candidates will be left out in PR. “Even if someone is very popular, they can’t get elected unless they belong to a party. That’s unfair and undemocratic.” He believes that small parties want PR because it would help them get more seats even with fewer votes. “But this would lead to unstable coalition governments, and the country may not have strong leadership.” Salahuddin, who is representing the BNP in discussions with the Consensus Commission, said their party will not accept the PR system election under any circumstances. He said some political parties are making different demands — some want reforms, others say no election without justice or proportional representation (PR). “They are making these remarks with various purposes. But we are confident the election will be held by February next year as per the Constitution. Everyone has the right to speak, but their statements may have political motives.” “We respect new political parties and wish them well. But real political weight comes from public support. Some smaller parties speak louder than larger ones, though they represent very few people. In politics, public perception matters,” the BNP leader said. Even within alliance partners of BNP, he said different views may arise. “That could be part of their bargaining strategy, like seat sharing.” Fakhrul urges BNP leaders, activists to begin election preparations When asked about the future of the Awami League, Salahuddin said, “My view is that the Awami League is no longer a political party. They lost their political ideals and character long ago. They have transformed themselves into a mafia-like organisation — an undemocratic, fascist force. Throughout their history, from before 1975 until now, they have never practised democracy. Democracy is simply not in their DNA.”

The daylong hartal, called by BNP to protest the schedule for the next national election, is underway in a lax manner. BNP called the hartal on the last date for submitting nomination papers to contest the 12th parliamentary polls. The hartal started at 6 am and will end at 6 pm today (November 30, 2023). Two covered vans were set on fire by miscreants in Gazipur. BNP to enforce daylong hartal Thursday Despite fear of arson attacks, a number of vehicles including public transport were seen plying the city streets. Additional police were seen performing their duties at all key points of Dhaka. The opposition parties’ shutdown is meant to register their protest against the schedule for the next national election announced by the Election Commission (EC), and to mount pressure on the government to quit, hold the next election under a non-party neutral government and release the opposition leaders and activists, including BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir. BNP to enforce blockade Wednesday, hartal Thursday The 24-hour blockade called by the opposition parties on Wednesday was marked by stray incidents of arson attacks on vehicles. The opposition parties have so far observed blockades in eight phases.

The next national election of Bangladesh will be held as per the constitution under the independent Election Commission, Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader has said. “The election won’t stop for any political party. There are multiple political parties who want to join the election. Why do you think that election won’t be acceptable if one or two parties do not participate? To participate in the election is a political right, and if a party doesn’t use it, that’s up to them,” he said.  The Road Transport and Bridges Minister came up with the remarks while talking to reporters after placing a wreath on the grave of Sheikh Russel at Banani Graveyard in Dhaka. Today (October 18, 2023) marks the 60th birth anniversary of the youngest son of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Next polls will be held as per constitution: Obaidul Quader “The law enforcing agencies are arresting those who were involved in arson, vandalism and were accused in arms and murder cases,” Quader said. Khandaker Mushtaq and Ziaur Rahman had started the politics of murder and conspiracy in the country in 1975 and their successor BNP is still continuing it, said the Awami League leader.  Obaidul Quader says dragging out dead caretaker system will bring no gain Expressing the determination to eradicate the politics of murder and conspiracy under the leadership of Sheikh Hasina, he said, “Our fight will continue until we make the country safe and livable for innocent children like Sheikh Russel.” Awami League leaders and activists led by its general secretary placed wreaths on the grave of Sheikh Russel and offered munajat there. Game to be played in October, December, and in first week of January: Obaidul Quader