United News of Bangladesh

BNP Joint Secretary General Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anne on Sunday called upon all political parties to stay united for the sake of democracy and rebuilding Bangladesh, instead of creating unnecessary debate over the recent meeting between Prof Muhammad Yunus and Tarique Rahman in London. “Some people were objecting to this meeting, but I think it does not go with the spirit of democracy. It is not justified. There is still time. I believe every party should come together in the greater interest of democracy,” he said while speaking at a milad and doa mahfil. Jatiyatabadi Ulema Dal organised the programme on the ground floor of BNP’s Nayapaltan central office, seeking the complete recovery of party Chairperson Khaleda Zia and the speedy recovery of party Religious Affairs Secretary Rafiqul Islam Jamal. Following the ouster of the fascist regime through the July-August mass uprising, Anne said all parties should move forward maintaining unity. “That unity is possible under the leadership of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia and Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman.” He said a joint statement was issued following a warm meeting between Chief Adviser Prof Yunus and BNP Acting Chairman Tarique on Friday, reflecting the hopes and aspirations of the country’s people. CA-Tarique meeting causes ‘heartburn’ among some political parties: Rizvi “It is the goal of all of us who fought against fascism to build a better Bangladesh. The foundation of democracy will be weakened if the anti-fascist political parties remain divided,” the BNP leader observed. He also said there should not have been any heartburn among political parties over the meeting held in London. Anne criticised Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman for his comment that there was favouritism towards a specific party in the meeting. Stating that everyone knows the reason behind Tarique’s exile in London, Anne questioned why this meeting is now being criticised. He pointed out that Jamaat had met the Chief Adviser several times, but Tarique could not do so earlier as he has been staying abroad. In the current context, he said, the meeting was important for Bangladesh’s election, reforms and justice, just like the meetings held inside the country with other political parties. The BNP leader said had Tarique been in the country, his meeting with the Chief Adviser would not have taken place abroad. He said Tarique Rahman has announced a 31-point state reform outline as BNP is against the rule of one-party and one-person. If BNP is voted to power, Anne said it will form a national government with all the parties who were part of the movement against the fascist Awami League regime.

BNP Vice Chairman Shamsuzzaman Dudu on Saturday said people feel reassured after the London meeting between Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus and BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman as it signals the country’s democracy is moving in the right direction. “The meeting that took place in London yesterday (Friday) between Dr Muhammad Yunus and BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has taken the democratic movement to a higher level, bringing back a sense of relief,” he told a discussion at the Jatiya Press Club. Dudu said this meeting encouraged the strength of the democratic movement in Bangladesh and assured the democratic forces that democracy will remain on the right path in the coming days. He said the Chief Adviser’s London meeting with Tarique will be written in Bangladesh history in golden words, and this meeting was expected. “For this, I thank Dr Muhammad Yunus and Tarique Rahman on behalf of this meeting and myself,” the BNP leader said. Janatar Odhikar Party organised the programme at the Jatiya Press Club. Dudu said Tarique Rahman has taken a positive step towards democracy through his meeting with the Chief Adviser. “No matter how far away he may be, he now lives in the hearts of people. The support, trust and confidence that people have in him is truly unprecedented.” The BNP leader said many of those who once criticised Tarique are now among his supporters and admirers. After the ouster of the autocratic regime of Sheikh Hasina on August 5, he said the nation’s ultimate goal was to establish democracy, an elected government and restore the people’s right to vote. For the last fifteen years, Dudu said people have not been able to vote for their preferred candidate and party as Sheikh Hasina resorted to deception in the name of voting. He said Hasina has established such a controlled system of rigging in the name of elections that, although people stood in line in front of polling stations, there was no actual voting, and democratic parties of the people of this country could not participate in the polls. The BNP leader said Sheikh Hasina propagated such so-called voting as elections both at home and abroad. He alleged that neighbouring India, which wears the mask of democracy, recognised those elections and congratulated Sheikh Hasina with garlands of flowers. Election possible before Ramadan: Prof Yunus tells Tarique “It seems to me that our neighbouring country, which claims to be a friendly and democratic nation, is the most dangerous force for democracy, and we need to be aware of them,” Dudu said. He said the spirit of the mass uprising in July–August 2024 will only be fulfilled when democracy is firmly established in the country. The BNP leader described the uprising as a positive beginning for Bangladesh, but emphasised that elections are essential for the true establishment of democracy. “All democratic parties in Bangladesh who have taken part in movements and struggles support the election. Some want them sooner, some later—but at present, there is no political party in Bangladesh that does not want elections.” While democratic parties may have differences of opinion, Dudu said, they are united in their support for democracy and the election. He, however, cautioned that this unity must not be undermined by internal disputes or overexcitement. The BNP leader stressed that those who were martyred or injured in the struggle for democracy must not be forgotten so quickly. Over the past 15 to 16 years, he said, leaders and activists from pro-democratic parties, including the BNP, have been martyred, disappeared, or imprisoned while fighting for democratic rights. Dudu recalled that nearly 4,750 BNP leaders and activists have been subjected to killings or enforced disappearances. He said nearly 2,000 others, including young people and children, were martyred during the July–August movement, with many still undergoing treatments in hospitals. “They must not be forgotten so easily.  We need to stand by them, understand their demands and hopes, and work together to build a Bangladesh free from injustice and discrimination.” Prof Yunus, Tarique agree on pre-Ramadan election if preparations complete    

Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus and BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman met for 90 minutes and agreed to hold the next election in the week before Ramadan 2026, instead of early April, if all preparations are completed in time. A joint statement from the Chief Adviser and Acting BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman was issued following their meeting in London, indicating that the talks marked a turning point in dispelling political stalemate and easing strained ties between the interim government and the country’s largest political party. Reading out the statement at a joint press conference at the Dorchester Hotel in London after the meeting, National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman said the talks between Tarique and Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus were held in a very cordial atmosphere. The statement said Tarique Rahman proposed to the Chief Adviser that the national election be held a week before Ramadan next year. “BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia also believes that holding the election during that time would be appropriate.” “The Chief Adviser said he has already announced that the election will be held in the early April next year. If all preparations are completed, it may even be possible to hold the election in the week before the start of Ramadan in 2026. But, in that case, sufficient progress would need to be made by then regarding reforms and the trial,” the joint statement reads. It said Tarique welcomed the Chief Adviser’s position and thanked him on behalf of the party. “The Chief Adviser also thanked Mr Tarique Rahman for the fruitful discussion.” Earlier, the high-stake meeting between Professor Yunus and Tarique ended after nearly one and a half hours of discussion on various crucial issues ahead of the general election. The meeting began at the Dorchester Hotel in London at 2pm, Bangladesh time, on Friday and continued until 3:30pm (BST). The meeting was scheduled to end at 4pm (BST) but concluded half an hour earlier than planned. Addressing the press conference, Dr Khalilur expressed the hope that the Election Commission will soon announce a date for the next national election. “There is no problem over the election time. We don’t see any problem…  We both sides in the joint statement talked about (our position on) the election, and we hope the Election Commission will soon announce a date for the election,” he said. Prof Yunus-Tarique meeting clears uncertainty, paves path for polls: Fakhrul Both Dr Khalilur Rahman and BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury who also joined the press conference said they were happy with the outcome of the meeting. “We’re surely satisfied. We also said that not only before the election, but also after the election, we all will work together for building the country,” said Khosru. Echoing the BNP leader, Dr Khalilur said, “The joint statement would not have been issued if both sides were not satisfied.” Replying to a question over July charter and reform, Amir Khosru said there is already a decision that the July Charter would be framed based on consensus. “We will make both the July Charter and reforms following consensus. I’m confident we can reach a decision soon in this regard,” he said. The BNP leader said all important issues normally came up for discussion in the meeting as there is a determination to build a new Bangladesh. “We move ahead with a determination to build a new Bangladesh. We all want to work together to fulfill the determination we have taken to build the country. We will take forward the determination we have agreed on to build Bangladesh not only before the election, but also after the election," he said. Amir Khosru said the Chief Adviser, Tarique Rahman and all others said the same thing -- whatever issues are agreed upon will be implemented as reforms.  Election in mid-February as Chief Adviser agrees: Fakhrul Asked about Tarique Rahman’s possible return to Bangladesh, Khosru said, “We don’t think it’s necessary to discuss here in the meeting. Mr Tarique Rahman can return to the country whenever he wants. So, he will take this decision in due time.” In reply to a question about the newly formed Nationalist Citizen Party’s (NCP) announcement that it would not participate in the election without reforming the Election Commission, Dr Khalilur said, “You should ask them (NCP). Every party has its own opinion, but we want to hold the election with participation of all.” When asked whether the government is shifting from its April election timeline, Dr Khalilur said, “If all preparations are completed on time and there is sufficient progress in reforms and justice, it can certainly be done (the election may be held earlier).” Amir Khosru the meeting started with the two delegations and later moved to a one-on-one discussion between the duo (Prof Yunus and Tarique Rahman). The discussion between them (the two persons) lasted for a long time.” CA’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam was present during the joint briefing. Meanwhile, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, during his meeting with the party’s acting chairman, agreed to hold the next national election in mid-February next. “Everybody was expecting that this meeting could be a turning point. We express our gratitude to Allah that this meeting has truly turned into a turning point,” he said while talking to reporters at the BNP Chairperson’s Gulshan office after the meeting. EC expected to announce next election date soon, says Khalilur after Dr Yunus-Tarique talks Fakhrul said Tarique proposed bringing the election date forward from April, as earlier announced by the Chief Adviser, since that time is not favourable for voting. “The entire nation noticed with immense joy that the Chief Adviser agreed to it, and they (govt) fixed the election timeframe in the middle of February.” He thanked Prof Yunus, saying that using his prudence he invited Tarique to the meeting and thus ended the political stalemate for taking the nation forward with new hopes. The BNP leader said it is now necessary to move forward towards a fair election in mid-February by forgetting past misunderstandings and further consolidating the national unity. Later in a statement, Fakhrul said the meeting between Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus and party Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman removed uncertainty and brought a message of relief and new hope through a fruitful consensus to hold the next national election before Ramadan.  “We sincerely thank Prof Muhammad Yunus for determining a logical timeframe for the election by stepping away from the previously announced unfavourable April timeline, connecting the expectations and achievements of the entire Bangladesh,” the BNP leader said. Stating that the Chief Adviser has made a timely decision realising the aspirations of people, Fakhrul said it was a move worthy of appreciation. Election possible before Ramadan: Prof Yunus tells Tarique Holding the principle of 'Bangladesh first' in his heart, the BNP leader said Tarique has proven, as always, that his highest priority is the country's interests, sovereignty and stability. “He (Tarique) has demonstrated a sense of responsibility by making concessions in response to the needs of the time. In the journey to establish democracy, he is not only a leader of the highest power on the streets, but also equally skilled and visionary at the dialogue table and in constructive engagement," Fakhrul said. By gifting the Chief Adviser two books titled 'No One Is Too Small to Make a Difference' and 'Nature Matters: Vital Poems from the Global Majority' and a pen, the BNP leader said Tarique ushered in a new trend of political courtesy and knowledge-based state thinking. “We believe that through this harmony and consensus between the largest political party and the head of the interim government, democracy will lead to a victory for democracy, Bangladesh and its people,” he observed. The BNP leader said the expectation now is that the interim government will begin all-out preparations to hold elections before next Ramadan, keeping its stated position intact.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Friday said the meeting between Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus and party Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman removed uncertainty and brought a new hope through a fruitful consensus to hold the next national election before Ramadan. "The fruitful consensus reached in this meeting on holding the national election before the upcoming Ramadan has dispelled uncertainty and brought a message of relief and new hope for the people of the country," he said in a statement. The BNP leader said the meeting --held in London in a very cordial atmosphere --ensured Bangladesh’s victory. “We sincerely thank Prof Muhammad Yunus for determining a logical timeframe for the election by stepping away from the previously announced unfavourable April timeline, connecting the expectations and achievements of the entire Bangladesh,” the BNP leader said. Stating that the Chief Adviser has made a timely decision realising the aspirations of people, Fakhrul said it was a move worthy of appreciation. Election possible before Ramadan: Prof Yunus tells Tarique Holding the principle of 'Bangladesh first' in his heart, the BNP leader said Tarique has proven, as always, that his highest priority is the country's interests, sovereignty and stability. “He (Tarique) has demonstrated a sense of responsibility by making concessions in response to the needs of the time. In the journey to establish democracy, he is not only a leader of the highest power on the streets, but also equally skilled and visionary at the dialogue table and in constructive engagement," he said. By gifting the Chief Adviser two books titled 'No One Is Too Small to Make a Difference' and 'Nature Matters: Vital Poems from the Global Majority' and a pen, the BNP leader said Tarique ushered in a new trend of political courtesy and knowledge-based state thinking. “We believe this cordial understanding between the head of the largest political party and the Chief Adviser of the interim government will lead to a victory for democracy, for Bangladesh, and for the people,” Fakhrul said. “We believe that through this harmony and consensus between the largest political party and the head of the interim government, democracy will lead to a victory for democracy, Bangladesh and its people,” he observed. The BNP leader said the expectation now is that the interim government will begin all-out preparations to hold elections before next Ramadan, keeping its stated position intact. Election in mid-February as Chief Adviser agrees: Fakhrul The high-stake meeting between Professor Yunus and Tarique ended after nearly one and a half hours of discussion on various crucial issues ahead of the general election. The meeting began at the Dorchester Hotel in London at 2pm, Bangladesh time, on Friday and continued until 3:30pm (BST), said BNP media cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan. It was scheduled to end at 4pm but concluded half an hour earlier than planned.

After a “satisfactory” meeting between Chief Adviser Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus and BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman on Friday expressed the hope that the Election Commission will soon announce a date for the next national election. “There is no problem over the election time. We don’t see any problem…  We both sides in the joint statement talked about (our position on) the election, and we hope the Election Commission will soon announce a date for the election,” he told a joint press conference at Dorchester Hotel in London after the meeting. Both Dr Khalilur Rahman and BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury said they were happy with the outcome of the meeting. “We’re surely satisfied. We also said that not only before the election, but also after the election, we all will work together for building the country,” said Khosru. Echoing the BNP leader, Dr Khalilur said, “The joint statement would not have been issued if both sides were not satisfied.” Earlier, a joint statement from the Chief Adviser and Acting BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman was issued following their meeting in London. Reading out the joint statement, Dr Khalilur Rahman said the meeting between Tarique and Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus was held in a very cordial atmosphere. The statement said Tarique Rahman proposed to the Chief Adviser that the national election be held before Ramadan next year. “Party Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia also believes that holding the election during that time would be appropriate.” Election in mid-February as Chief Adviser agrees: Fakhrul “The Chief Adviser said he has already announced that the election will be held in early April next year. If all preparations are completed, it may even be possible to hold the election in the week before the start of Ramadan in 2026. But, in that case, sufficient progress would need to be made by then regarding reforms and the trial,” the joint statement reads. It said Tarique welcomed the Chief Adviser’s position and thanked him on behalf of the party. “The Chief Adviser also thanked Mr Tarique Rahman for the fruitful discussion.” July charter, reforms to be based on consensus: Amir Khosru Replying to a question over July charter and reform, Amir Khosru said there is already a decision that the July Charter would be framed based on consensus. “We will make both the July Charter and reforms following consensus. I’m confident we can reach a decision soon in this regard,” he said. The BNP leader said all important issues normally came up for discussion in the meeting as there is a determination to build a new Bangladesh. “We move ahead with a determination to build a new Bangladesh. We all want to work together to fulfill the determination we have taken to build the country. We will take forward the determination we have agreed on to build Bangladesh not only before the election, but also after the election," he said. Amir Khosru said the Chief Adviser, Tarique Rahman and all others said the same thing - whatever issues are agreed upon will be implemented as reforms.  Election possible before Ramadan: Prof Yunus tells Tarique Noting that reform is an ongoing process, he said, “Some reforms will be implemented even before the election and reforms will also continue after the election. Because we all feel the need for reforms as we are committed to building a country.” Asked about Tarique Rahman’s possible return to Bangladesh, Khosru said, “We don’t think it’s necessary to discuss here in the meeting. Mr Tarique Rahman can return to the country whenever he wants. So, he will take this decision in due time.” Responding to a question, Dr Khalilur said the joint statement mentioned sufficient progress regarding two issues -- reforms and trial. “We’re reasonably confident that sufficient progress will be achieved before the election,” he said. In reply to a question about the newly formed Nationalist Citizen Party’s (NCP) announcement that it would not participate in the election without reforming the Election Commission, Dr Khalilur said, “You should ask them (NCP). Every party has its own opinion, but we want to hold the election with participation of all.” When asked whether the government is shifting from its April election timeline, Dr Khalilur said, “If all preparations are completed on time and there is sufficient progress in reforms and justice, it can certainly be done (the election may be held earlier).” Answering a question whether there was any discussion on formation of a government based on national unity, Amir Khosru replied, “No, this is a post-election decision. It is the decision of those who will be elected. So there is nothing to discuss here,” he said. The BNP leader said the meeting started with the two delegations and later moved to a one-on-one discussion between the duo (Prof Yunus and Tarique Rahman). The discussion between them (the two persons) lasted for a long time, he added. Fakhrul urges interim govt to rethink about April election timing In response to the question of whether both sides are satisfied, Amir Khasru said, “Certainly satisfied. We are saying that we all have to work together not only before the election but also after it to build the country, to create a new Bangladesh.” Dr Khalilur echoed, “Had there been no satisfaction, there would have been no joint statement.” CA’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam was present during the joint briefing. The high-stake meeting between Professor Yunus and Tarique ended after nearly two hours of discussion on various crucial issues ahead of the general election. The meeting began at the Dorchester Hotel in London at 2pm Bangladesh time on Friday and continued until 3:30pm (BST), said BNP media cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan. The meeting was scheduled to end at 4pm but concluded half an hour earlier than planned. Earlier, National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman and the CA’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam received Tarique Rahman upon his arrival at the hotel around 1:50pm.

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

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

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

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