United News of Bangladesh

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Monday said a credible national election cannot be held if Awami League loyalists stay in the police and administration, and primary school teachers appointed during Sheikh Hasina’s regime are involved in the electoral process. “Everyone wants the upcoming election in February, before Ramadan, to be free and fair. But a credible election is not possible under an administration dominated by the Awami League. So, Awami League cadres must be removed from the administration,” he said. Talking to reporters after paying homage to BNP founder Ziaur Rahman, Rizvi also said 16,399 primary school teachers were recruited during the Awami League regime. He claimed that most of these teachers were appointed without any merit-based competition. Of these, the BNP leader said 55 to 60 percent are loyal to the Awami League. “If these teachers serve as polling officers, or presiding officers, can the election be fair? No.” He said the only criterion for their appointment was whether they were involved with Chhatra League, Jubo League, or the Awami League. “In this way, the administration has been organised with party loyalists, and they must be removed from the administration and excluded from the election process,” Rizvi said. Rizvi slams move to make July Charter a core principle He, however, said their party party does not want to appoint BNP loyalists in return. “We want neutral individuals, who are not biased in any way, to serve as polling officers and presiding officers.” Rizvi, along with the new leaders of the Nilphamari district unit BNP convener committee, placed a wreath at the grave of Ziaur Rahman in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar by paying their homage to the party founder. For the past 15–16 years, he said, the administration and police have been dominated by Awami League cadres. “A free and fair election cannot be held keeping them in the administration.” The BNP leader said BNP believes the Election Commission will pay attention to these matters and ensure a credible election, allowing voters to freely go to the polling stations and vote for their preferred candidates. Rizvi questions BAF flight operations over densely populated Uttara area Rizvi also urged BNP leaders and activists to remain alert, saying associates of the Awami League are trying to create unrest in different parts of the country using various tactics. “They are even being given military training. You have seen that two of them have already been arrested. Imagine how many more such activities they might be involved in… Everyone must stay alert,” he said. Opposing the proportional representation (PR) system, the BNP leader said the people of the country are not ready for such an electoral system. “The PR system is not suitable for Bangladesh. There are doubts about the intentions of those who demand PR system.”  

After a successful meeting in London between Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus and BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, the BNP is now gearing up for the national election, likely to be held in the second week of February next. Talking to UNB, senior BNP leaders said the meeting has brought hope and relief to national politics, paving the path for the much-needed stability. CA-Tarique meeting causes ‘heartburn’ among some political parties: Rizvi They believe it helped remove doubts about the election process and improved relations between the interim government and BNP and its allies. They also feel that if the government remains sincere and committed, it will be able to announce the election schedule soon after completing necessary reforms, preparing the July Charter and starting trials of those involved in last year’s mass killing during the July–August Uprising. BNP leaders hope Tarique Rahman will return home soon to lead the party and energise its members for a big win in the coming election. The meeting was particularly significant in light of the government’s previous announcement that the next election would be held in April 2026. BNP strongly opposed this and demanded an earlier date, which raised tensions. Prof Yunus-Tarique London meeting raises hope, shows democratic direction: Dudu Now, after the London meeting, BNP leaders are happy with the outcome and confident the election process will proceed smoothly. Sources close to the government and the BNP said the one-hour-and-20-minute meeting between Professor Yunus and Tarique Rahman was carefully planned. It became possible due to the personal commitment of both leaders, along with intense behind-the-scenes efforts by two senior advisers, several civil society members, foreign diplomats, and a close aide to Tarique. They said the meeting was held in a friendly and respectful manner. Tarique focused on moving the election date from April to February. As Professor Yunus agreed, saying elections could be held before Ramadan, they said Tarique showed willingness to cooperate with on reforms, the July Charter, and the trial of those involved in last year’s widespread killing to suppress the mass uprising. Both leaders honoured the sacrifices of students and ordinary citizens and agreed that this was a chance to rebuild the country. Prof Yunus-Tarique talks a 'game-over' moment for conspirators: Shafiqul Alam The sources also said Tarique shared his vision for the future, while Professor Yunus made it clear that he has no political ambitions, saying his is only interested in making sure the election is fair and credible. They said Tarique also praised some of the government’s steps to fix the economy and promised to support a smooth transition to democracy. A BNP Standing Committee member confirmed that their Acting Chairman conveyed to Professor Yunus that if the party forms the next government, it will seek his advice and use his experience and international contacts to help rebuild the country. With the election timeline now clearer, he said the BNP will begin full-scale preparations for the polls. The BNP leader said most of the party’s promising candidates visited their constituencies during Eid-ul-Azha and were busy conducting mass contact campaigns. He said Tarique has already begun working on preparing a list of suitable candidates, gathering information about them, and developing the party’s election strategy. Besides, the BNP leader said they will soon begin talks with like-minded parties—such as Nagorik Oikya, Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal (JSD-Rab), Revolutionary Workers Party, Ganasamhati Andolon, LDP, Gono Odhikar Parishad, Ganoforum, National People’s Party, Bangladesh Jatiya Party, Nationalist Democratic Movement, the 12-party Alliance, and Samomona Jote—about seat sharing in the election. Contacted, BNP Standing Committee Member Dr Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain said the meeting between Professor Yunus and Tarique Rahman was very important for Bangladesh and its future. “It helped reduce uncertainty and opened the door for peaceful elections. “There were many questions about whether elections would happen. But now, the country is moving forward to the polls. Some are talking about reforms and trails, but these won’t stop the election,” he said. When asked if BNP is ready for the election, he replied that as a major political party, BNP is always prepared. The BNP leader said their party will complete all formal steps before the election schedule is officially announced. Once that happens, he said BNP will start selling nomination papers and select candidates through interviews. BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed called the meeting ‘historic’ and a ‘victory for democracy’.  He said people in Bangladesh have waited a long time for free and fair elections, and now that goal is in sight. The BNP leader believes a fair election will lead to a strong, democratic government and political stability. Salahuddin praised both Professor Yunus and Tarique Rahman for showing wisdom during their talks. “They agreed to hold the election in February, before Ramadan, after thinking about all the important issues.” He said the meeting focused on both the present situation of the country and important issues about building the nation’s future. BNP Joint Secretary General Shahiduddin Chowdhury Annie said the meeting brought peace and hope after months of political uncertainty. “Now, everyone is ready for an election festival. We will move forward with that spirit,” he said.  

BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman on Thursday once again urged the interim government to announce a specific date for holding the next general election by December, reflecting the people's aspirations. “I urge the interim government once again— bear the people's aspiration and immediately announce a specific date for holding the national election by December,” he said while addressing a discussion in the capital through a virtual platform from London. BNP arranged the discussion at the Institution of Engineers Bangladesh (IEB) auditorium marking the 44th martyrdom anniversary of BNP founder and late President Ziaur Rahman. BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia addressed the discussion as the chief guest. It was presided over by party’s secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir. Tarique Rahman expects most credible election soon under Dr Yunus Tarique said here there is no issue of the victory or defeat for the interim government; rather it should present the freedom-loving people a fair election to help make the democracy victorious. Criticising the interim government, he said, “This government is in no way accountable. It has no scope to be accountable to the people as well.” Even after ten months in office, the interim government has yet to declare a specific date for the election, creating a sense of uncertainty in both the state and political arenas, said the BNP acting chairman. BNP slams NSA Khalilur’s remarks on Tarique, demands his immediate removal “This uncertainty has brought the country’s economic activities to a near standstill,” he said, adding that in the absence of a stable, elected government with a fixed term, desired investments are also not seen in the country. Tarique said the people of Bangladesh are ready to vote for their preferred candidates to establish an accountable government through an election. “But the interim government seems to be failing to realise the people's expectations,” he added. BNP standing committee members Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain, Abdul Moyeen Khan, Salahuddin Ahmed, Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku and Major (retd) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed, noted educationalist Prof Mahbub Ullah and Vice Chancellor of Jahangirnagar University Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan, among others, spoke at the function moderated by BNP publicity secretary Sultan Salahuddin Tuku.  

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Wednesday alleged that efforts are underway to delay the upcoming national election, suggesting that certain individuals both within and outside the interim government may have a hidden agenda linked to the reform process. “It seems that dilly-dally over holding the next national election has already started or is underway. The future of the election has got trapped in a cycle of innovative conditions of so-called minimum reform and maximum reforms,” he said. The BNP acting chairman said this while addressing a mammoth youth rally in front of the party’s Nayapaltan central office in the capital through a virtual platform in the afternoon. He said people have begun to believe that certain individuals, both within and outside the interim government, may have a hidden agenda behind the façade of stalling for time in the name of reform. Election must be by December next: Tarique Tarique Rahman said every caretaker government in the past had successfully conducted national elections within three months of assuming office. “Bangladesh has records of holding national elections within three months by the caretaker governments. But today, even after ten months, the interim government is yet to announce the date for election,” he said. He demanded that the next election be held without further delay, saying they want to see a people’s government soon—elected by direct vote, which would be accountable and responsible to the people in fascism-freed Bangladesh. BNP vows reforms, justice after election: Senior leaders Issuing a clear ultimatum, Tarique said, “Our call to the interim government -- the national election must be held by December.” He urged BNP leaders and activists to begin preparation so that the national election takes place by December. Defying Court Orders—Can They Reform? Criticising the interim government, Tarique Rahman said the obstruction of Ishraque Hossain from assuming office as mayor of Dhaka South City Corporation as a manifestation of an authoritarian mindset. He said the fugitive autocrat (Hasina-led govt) used to defy the court and the court rulings.  But the people of the country had expected that the government who came later would show respect to the laws, he added. “By creating barriers to Ishraque Hossain’s assumption of office as Dhaka South’s mayor, without honouring a court ruling, we are witnessing a recurrence of the same autocratic act,” he said. The BNP acting chairman asked people how much reform can be expected from those who undermine the court order and don’t show respect to the laws. “Through obstruction to Ishraque’s assumption of office or oath-taking, now we’re witnessing the manifestation of the authoritarian mindset,” he added. Don’t Make Democratic Parties Rivals Tarique asked the interim government not to take any step that would erode public trust and love as neutrality and credibility are its main capital. “We again urge the interim government—please do not turn democracy-loving people and pro-democracy parties into your opponents.” BNP’s youth rally turns Nayapaltan into a sea of people The BNP leader said if anyone among the government wishes to stay in power, the person should contest the next election.  “If anyone among you wishes to remain in power, then resign, go to the people, contest the election and if the people support you in that election, take the responsibility of governing the country,” he said.  Tarique Rahman highlighted his party’s plan to generate employment for youths, increase food production and turn the population as human resources, if it could come to power with public mandate in the election. Jatiyatabadi Jubo Dal, Swecchasebak Dal and Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) jointly arranged the function presided over by Jubo Dal President Abdul Monayem Munna. Tens of thousands of people joined the rally arranged for youths from Dhaka, Mymensingh, Sylhet and Faridpur divisions, commemorating the martyrdom month of BNP founder and late president Ziaur Rahman. BNP standing committee members Dr Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain, Mirza Abbas, Gayeshwar Chandra Roy, Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan, Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury and Salahuddin Ahmed, Swechasebak Dal President SM Jilani and JCD President Rakibul Islam Rakib spoke at the rally.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Friday urged the interim government not to take any step that would facilitate the rehabilitation of fleeing autocrats in the country. “I would like to draw the attention of the interim government and reiterate that no steps should be taken to allow the fugitive autocrats and their cohorts to be rehabilitated in the state and politics,” he said while addressing an iftar party virtually. BNP hosted the iftar party at the Ladies Club in the city’s Eskaton area in honour of various professionals. Tarique also stressed the importance of maintaining national unity against fascism for the greater good of the nation. “By turning a minor issue into the main focus in the political arena, doubts and suspicions have been, or are being, inadvertently created within the anti-fascist national unity,” he observed. In a context where thousands of crores of money looted from the state remain unrecovered, the BNP leader said holding local body elections before the national election would create an opportunity for the rehabilitation of fugitive autocrats and their associates, who are still lurking in the country. He pointed out that around three crore young voters were denied the right to vote during the one-and-a-half decades of Sheikh Hasina's mafia rule. Tarique pledges support to Patuakhali rape victim’s family “To ensure the political empowerment of these voters, the national election must be held first in the country,” Tarique said. He also observed that no reforms would be sustainable without the political empowerment of the country’s people. The BNP leader said the way reforms and elections are being pitted against each other is undoubtedly politically motivated. “To those who advocate for holding national elections only after completing reforms, I want to say that reform never ends. It is a continuous process,” he said. The BNP leader said the current constitution of the country, which was arbitrarily amended by the fugitive autocrats and transformed into their party’s constitution, clearly states that the national parliament shall be formed by the direct vote of people. “Despite this explicit provision in the constitution, during the rule of the fugitive fascist government, the people of Bangladesh and the entire world repeatedly witnessed how the national parliament was formed without the people’s vote. The fugitive autocratic government did not adhere to the constitution,” he said. For this reason, Tarique said his party believes that in democratic politics, the practical application of democratic political rights and conduct is more important than textbook reforms. “Only through the people’s democratic practices can reforms become sustainable, successful and effective.” He acknowledged the undeniable role and contribution of noted citizens, civil society, and professionals in the country. “Much of the good and bad of the state and politics depends on the patriotism of politicians and their policies in governing the state. In this regard, the more effective the role of distinguished citizens and professionals in the state and society, the more responsible and powerful the political government becomes.” Tarique likened politics to the roof of a well-organised and united house, where civil society and professionals are the pillars or supports of that house. “In a state, politicians, civil society, and professionals are complementary to one another.” BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said the country is currently going through a very difficult time. “An interim government was formed after defeating and ousting a brutal fascist government through a massive student-led mass uprising. The entire nation is now awaiting the formation of a new democratic parliament and government with great expectation.” BNP condemns Israeli attacks, urges global action to stop Gaza bloodshed During this challenging time, he called upon all to play a responsible role from their respective positions and move forward with patience and peace. “Those of us involved in politics, those in various professions, and those associated with the government or the public in any way should speak and act in such a way that it opens up opportunities for the advancement of democracy.” Fakhrul urged all democratic forces to work towards building a new, democratic Bangladesh through realistic thoughts. “It is now crucial to hold the national election very quickly to resolve the crisis. Completing the necessary reforms for the election and then conducting the election will be the wisest course of action. At this moment, carrying out that wise action seems to be the best approach,” he said.

Unlike in previous elections, the BNP has no possibility of forming an electoral alliance with its long-standing ally, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, ahead of the next national election, even if the Awami League participates in the polls, said party Standing Committee member Gayeshwar Chandra Roy. In an interview with UNB, he also expressed doubts about Jamaat's potential to establish an indirect alliance with the Awami League and through the assistance of India, as the Islamist party appears desperate to go to power. The BNP leader, however, said India, as a close neighbour of Bangladesh, should take the initiative to improve its relations with the BNP and the people of Bangladesh, as it has harmed bilateral ties by favouring only one political party. Tarique warns of threats to democracy, vows to uphold country’s secular character During the extensive interview, Gayeshwar also discussed the current political situation, the interim government’s performance and reform initiatives, the upcoming election, the future of the NCP and the Awami League, Tarique Rahman’s homecoming as well as the BNP’s next course of action to force the government to arrange the election by this year. “I don’t see any possibility for the BNP to form an electoral alliance with Jamaat this time. But, there is a possibility of Jamaat forming an alliance with the Awami League if our neighbouring country facilitates or arranges it,” Gayeshwar said. He also said Jamaat may establish at least an indirect alliance with the Awami League, as they did in the past in 1986 and 1996. “The way Jamaat is behaving, it seems they are desperate to come to power. In times of crisis, Jamaat has betrayed the nation. They were with the Awami League during the movement for the caretaker government in 1996 and during the 1986 elections. If Jamaat and Awami League had not participated in the 1986 elections, Ershad would have fallen much earlier,” the BNP leader said. Indian media involved in anti-Bangladesh propaganda: BNP’s Farroque Gayeshwar, however, said the common voters of the Awami League would not vote for Jamaat, even if the party forms an alliance with the Islamist party. He said BNP had an alliance with Jamaat based on elections and movements, and their party wants to continue it, but Jamaat is showing hostility towards BNP The BNP and Jamaat came close to each other during the 1991 national election, but their formal coalition was established in 1999. Since then, they have been together in their political journey. Starting with a four-party alliance and expanding to a 20-party coalition, they remained politically aligned until the dissolution of the 20-party alliance before the 12th national elections. With the Awami League absent from the political stage following the August 5 (2024) political changeover, the two long-standing allies, BNP and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, appear to be drifting apart as they vie for dominance ahead of the upcoming elections, according to political analysts. Gayeshwar also openly talked about his party’s stance on relations with India. “Our relationship with India remains the same as before. We have a foreign policy that encourages having friends abroad, but not masters. We must maintain diplomatic relations with neighbouring countries, so we are open to improving bilateral ties with India,” he said. July uprising and interim govt are outcomes of BNP's long struggle: Khandaker Mosharraf The BNP leader said India must take the initiative to improve diplomatic relations with whoever comes to power in Bangladesh. “India must take this initiative. We have not ruined relations with India. The people of Bangladesh have become dissatisfied with India because it chose to align with a party (AL) they do not support. To mend this, India must take diplomatic efforts,” he said. He also said Indian authorities should change their approach towards Bangladesh, respecting the people of Bangladesh and their wishes. Asked when BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman can return to the country, Gayeshwar said he may come back anytime. “Tarique Rahman will return to the country after considering everything, including his security issue.” He said their party has been pushing for the restoration of democracy through a credible election for the last 17 years. “We’ve been patient, trusting the interim government, but we won’t stay idle for long. Even if we don’t want to, we may have to take to the streets to ensure the election.” The BNP leader said there is no need to buy more time for the election in the name of reforms. “Reform is an ongoing process. We want reforms, but elections cannot be delayed for them. Elections must be held as soon as possible. Necessary reforms should be done to organise a free, fair, and acceptable election and the remaining reforms can be carried out by the elected government.” New conspiracy unfolding against BNP, democracy and Bangladesh, warns Tarique Gayeshwar said the interim government should not treat BNP as an opposition party, pushing it to take to the streets. He said BNP’s main demand over the past 17 years has been a fair election. “There is no reason to deviate from this demand.” Replying to a question, Gayeshwar said that the National Citizen Party (NCP) was supposed to be formed without any support from the government. “The strength of the new political party (NCP) lies within the government itself, as the government is doing a lot to support them, which is causing it to lose its neutrality.” He compared this to the actions of the Fakhruddin-Moyeenuddin government, which tried to create new parties but ultimately failed. When asked about the future of the Awami League, Gayeshwar said he does not support banning any political party, as it is the people who decide the fate of parties. He observed that many once-prominent parties, such as the Muslim League and National Awami Party, have faded into obscurity. Interim govt advisers trying to divide anti-fascist movement: Rizvi “This means many political parties in Bangladesh have been rejected by the people and disappeared. Can the Bangladesh Muslim League be found now anywhere? Has the National Awami Party been banned? But where are they now?” he said. The BNP leader said if the people continue to reject the Awami League in future elections, it may face the same fate as the Muslim League.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Sunday promised that his party would bring those responsible for the tortures and killings during the anti-autocratic movement and the 2024 mass uprising under trial, if it is voted to power. “We can firmly say if the people of Bangladesh give the BNP the opportunity to govern in the future, we will ensure trials for all incidents of killings and repression,” he said while addressing an Iftar Mahfil virtually at a city hotel. Tarique assured that the party would make every effort, alongside various political programmes, to ensure justice for those affected and for those subjected to repression and killings during the anti-autocratic movements and the July-August mass uprising. Focus on solving public issues, not just reforms: Tarique to political parties  Amra BNP Paribar organised the event at Lakeshore Hotel for the families of the victims of enforced disappearances and killings during the ‘fascist’ Awami League regime, as well as for the martyrs of the 2024 mass uprising. Eid gifts were also distributed among the victim families at the event. The BNP acting chairman said both the party and the nation expect a fair and neutral election in the future, through which the people of Bangladesh will decide who will form the government. Regardless of which party comes to power, he said there must be a programme, alongside various other activities, to ensure justice for all victims of torture and injustice. Tarique talks to Magura rape victim’s mother, assures justice “The trial must be conducted fairly at any costs. If we fail to hold trials for past injustices, and if there is no fair and proper trial for these incidents, then injustice could recur in the country,” he warned. Tarique Rahman urged the victim families not to lose hope but to live up to their expectations. “If we all remain united and vocal against injustice, we will certainly be able to hold these trials in this land,” he added.  

BNP Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said that if the Election Commission performs its duties properly, the general elections could take place between June and July, rather than in December. He further added, “If there is a delay in the election process, the people will begin to doubt the credibility of this interim government.” He made this statement during a meeting with the families of those injured and martyred in the July-August uprising in Rajshahi and Chapainawabganj, followed by a donation distribution ceremony on Friday. ‘Amra BNP Poribar’ organised this event at the city's Bhuban Mohan Park. Take stern action against abusers of women: BNP to govt Questioning the delay in holding the elections, Rizvi said Sheikh Hasina has deprived the people of their voting rights and delayed the election for 15 years. Voters were unable to go to polling stations and cast their votes for 15 years. Their votes were cast even before they could reach the polls. So, now people don’t want to see any delay in the election. Our electoral system and democratic institutions have been completely destroyed. “These institutions need to be revived, and we need innovation,” Rizvi added. He stated, "We believe that the interim government is essentially a caretaker government. Therefore, this government should be able to conduct a fair election. Any delay in the election process is unacceptable." Rizvi also highlighted the need for reforms to ensure that law enforcement agencies cannot oppress the people by acting as the government's enforcers. Moyeen Khan-led delegation returns home from China "An elected government is required to establish such laws. How can this be possible without an elected government? Therefore, the national parliamentary election must take place first," he added. Amra BNP Poribar convener Atiqur Rahman Rumman, BNP Executive Committee Health Affairs Secretary Dr. Rafiqul Islam, and other leaders also spoke at the event.

Although the party has been assured that the election will be held by December this year, BNP policymakers have decided to continue escalating pressure on the interim government to present  a clear election roadmap and ensure that no local body elections are held before the national one. Talking to UNB, some party policymakers expressed concerns that certain quarters may attempt to create obstacles to the national election in various ways, potentially exerting pressure on the government to hold the local body elections first. As part of the party’s strategy, they said BNP will hold public rallies in 67 organisational districts across the country, starting tomorrow (Wednesday), to demonstrate its popularity and organisational strength. In light of the current political situation, the BNP leaders said they have already instructed their leaders and activists to remain alert and ensure massive public participation in all rallies, demanding a prompt election and protesting public suffering. Govt working to arrange polls by December: Fakhrul Besides, they said, their party will now focus on election preparations, including, first and foremost, the selection of suitable candidates. Before launching their nationwide rally programme, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, along with two other senior leaders, met Professor Muhammad Yunus to inform him of the party's stance and views on the upcoming election. Following the meeting, BNP Standing Committee members convened and held an extensive discussion on the outcome of their one-and-a-half-hour talks with the Chief Adviser. A BNP Standing Committee member, speaking anonymously, said the interim government assured them that the election would be held by December next. “However, our concerns about the election have not yet been alleviated, as there are still several visible signs indicating a potential delay.” He said BNP wants the government to keep its commitment by promptly announcing an election roadmap. “So, we have decided to maintain our pressure on the government in various ways, including through street programmes, until a clear election roadmap is presented.” The BNP leader also said student leaders involved in the Anti-Discrimination Movement and Jamaat-e-Islami are trying to delay the election, exerting pressure on the government to conduct local body polls before the national election. “But we will not accept any election before the national one. We will thwart any attempt to delay the national election,” he said. BNP delegation sits with Chief Adviser The BNP leader said their party will hold rallies in all districts between February 12-25 to stage a massive show of strength and garner public support for their position on promptly arranging the national election. Another BNP Standing Committee member said there is no alternative to an election to resolve the ongoing crisis. “It seems the government has come to realise this truth. However, a certain party and group are trying to unsettle the government by opposing the national election before the local body polls. BNP will offer all-out support and cooperation to ensure that the government is not swayed by any external pressure.” “We will ensure the participation of a large number of people in all our rallies to give the government confidence that the majority of the country’s population is behind it in holding the election as early as possible,” he said. The BNP leader also revealed that their party has started its election preparations with December in mind. Having already announced its intention to form a national government if it wins the next election, he said BNP has begun initial discussions on how to allocate seats with like-minded parties that have supported them in the anti-fascist movement. At the same time, he said their party has started talks on selecting suitable BNP candidates for the election. “Basically, BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman is overseeing this matter. He is determined not to nominate any controversial candidates in the next election. Therefore, we will prioritise candidates with a clean image,” the BNP policymaker said. Election Roadmap: BNP delegation to meet Dr Yunus Monday BNP Standing Committee member Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain said the Chief Adviser assured their party Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir that the election would be held by December. “We want to trust this assurance. However, we will remain vigilant and closely monitor the government's activities,” he said. The BNP leader said they wanted the election to be held by July-August, but the government indicated that it would not be possible to complete preparations by that that time.  “We are giving the government until December to arrange the election. We hope they will keep their promise and announce an election roadmap very soon,” he said. Mosharraf said once the election roadmap is announced, the people of the country will rise up to thwart any efforts to derail the process. “Thus, the government must focus on holding the national election as soon as possible.” When asked about the party's ongoing nationwide rallies, he said BNP will continue to hold these rallies to press for various demands, alongside the prompt holding of the national election. In response to a question, Mosharraf said BNP may share seats with other parties, as in previous elections. Another BNP Standing Committee member, Mirza Abbas, said an evil force is attempting to delay the election under various pretexts, including holding local body polls before the national election. “We have fought for 17 years on the streets for a credible national election, not for local body elections. We hope that those advocating for local body elections will reconsider their stance in the interest of the country,” he said. Fakhrul hails govt for launching ‘Operation Devil Hunt’ Abbas warned that holding local body elections now would provide an opportunity for the fascist Awami League leaders and activists to stage a comeback. “We won’t allow that to happen.” He also reaffirmed BNP's commitment to supporting the interim government in holding a free, fair, and acceptable election. “But anyone who tries to create obstacles to the national election will be given a fitting reply.”

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Wednesday called upon the interim government to shift its focus on holding a participatory and credible national election from any other issue, as per the desire of people. Speaking at a discussion, he also urged Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus to remain alert so that people’s affection and respect for him are not diminished. “We need to give the government time and hope they will use it wisely.  Focus on the election without paying attention to other issues,” the BNP leader said addressing the government. He also said there is no alternative to holding a fair, neutral, inclusive and acceptable election to ensure the country's survival and progress. Because the greatest challenge we face now is to establish a democratic state. The BNP leader expressed hope that the government would arrange for an acceptable election within a reasonable timeframe, allowing the people to establish their parliament through their votes. "This is what the people want," he said. The National People's Party (NPP) organised the programme at Dhaka Reporter’s Unity (DRU) to mark its 17th founding anniversary. Fakhrul said the interim government has formed a search committee for the constitution of the Election Commission. “We expected that they (govt) would consult political parties before forming it, although we do not think this is a major issue, as we hope the committee will fulfill its responsibilities properly,” he said. The BNP leader hoped that the new election will arrange the election promptly. He noted that since the recently resigned Election Commission, led by Kazi Habibul Awal, arranged the election in three months, the new Commission should be able to do the same, saying that "it is certainly possible if there is the will to make it happen." The BNP leader said they believe this government has no political agenda, as its head has clearly indicated that he has no political ambitions. “I want to say to Dr Muhammad Yunus that you are highly respected worldwide, and the people of Bangladesh deeply love and respect you. They want that to continue. My request is that you stay vigilant to ensure your position is not undermined,” he said. Fakhrul said the nation is facing a critical time, pointing out that the struggle for democracy continues amid various plots. He warned that the state would be in great danger if any imprudent actions were taken or mistakes were made out of mere emotion, as many efforts are being made to threaten the nation’s existence. "We must remember these words.” He observed that everyone must remain vigilant, as the fascists are still active. “Merely changing an individual cannot alter the entire structure of fascism.” He said the youth have brought change to the country through a bloody struggle and immense sacrifices. “It’s also their responsibility to maintain it... we have to resolve many problems that we have. Stating that the interim government is a non-political one, the BNP leader said it has come forward to help the nation. “But politicians have to resolve the problems, and no problem can be solved without politicians.” Fakhrul thanked the government for forming several commissions for state reform. “We hope the government will take the reports from the reform commissions, present them to the people, and take it forward. I want to make one thing clear: all reforms must be ratified by the people and accepted by them.” He warned that reforms will never be sustainable without people's participation, emphasizing that success cannot be achieved by imposing reforms from above. “Ayub Khan tried, Ershad tried, but it was not possible. Nothing can be done that conflicts with our country and the culture of the people.”