United News of Bangladesh

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Sunday said it is up to the Election Commission (EC) and the courts to determine who is eligible to contest the upcoming local government elections. "The local government elections will be held in a non-partisan manner. Who can contest and who cannot is a matter for the courts and the Election Commission. They will determine eligibility in accordance with the existing laws," he said while talking to reporters at Nirbachan Bhaban in the city. Rizvi, also the PM’s political adviser, made the remarks replying to a question about Awami League’s participation in the local government elections.  Earlier, a three-member BNP delegation submitted the BNP’s annual financial statement for 2025 to EC Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed. Responding to a question about Jamaat-e-Islami's letter to the Election Commission seeking to prevent Awami League leaders from participating in the local government elections, Rizvi said the issue should be resolved strictly in accordance with the law. "It does not matter what any political party says. It is the responsibility of the Election Commission to determine who can contest the elections and who can’t do as per the existing laws and the new legal provisions. We are leaving the matter to the Commission," he said. Asked about BNP's process for selecting candidates in the non-party local elections, Rizvi said the party's highest policymaking body would decide the process. "As the elections are being held without party symbols, our highest policymaking forum will determine how our candidates will participate. No decision has yet been taken on the matter," he said. Replying to another question whether BNP would allow anyone to seek its support in the local polls, Rizvi said the party has not yet finalised its policy. "Once a decision is made, we will inform you," he added. Regarding BNP's next national council, Rizvi said party Chairman Tarique Rahman and Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir have already indicated that the council would be held. "The council will definitely take place. However, no decision has yet been made on the month or date. We hope it will be held very soon, and we will announce the schedule once it is finalised," he said. The two other BNP delegation members are BNP Treasurer and State Minister for Civil Aviation M Rashiduzzaman Millat and Assistant Office Secretary Monir Hossain. According to the audited financial statement, BNP earned some Tk 22.20 crore (exactly Tk 22,19,55,182) and spent Tk 15.26 crore (Tk15,26,10,857), leaving a surplus of nearly Tk 7 crore (Tk 6,93,54,325) during the 2025 calendar year. BNP began 2025 with an opening balance of Tk 21.14 crore. BNP had the balance of a total of Tk 28.07 crore at the end of 2025.  

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Friday took an apparent swipe at Jamaat-e-Islami, accusing the party of repeatedly trying to "fish in troubled waters," while also launching a scathing attack on the Awami League during a rally marking "Jatrabari Resistance Day." Speaking at the programme in the capital's Jatrabari, Rizvi said a party that claims to practise politics in the name of religion had opposed Bangladesh's independence despite the country's overwhelming support for the Liberation War. Referring to Jamaat without naming it directly, he said, "Their politics is about fishing in troubled waters time and again. But after a while, they themselves fall into those troubled waters." Criticising former prime minister Sheikh Hasina and the Awami League, Rizvi alleged that Hasina could not return to politics after the bloodshed she had caused. "Fascism is in their blood. Deception and hypocrisy are their political ideology," he said. He also alleged that some television presenters and commentators were trying to make Hasina politically relevant again by praising her in talk shows after August 5. At the same rally, Gono Odhikar Parishad President and State Minister for Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment Nurul Haque claimed that some student leaders had come under the influence of "foreign forces" during the final five to seven days of the July mass uprising in 2024. He alleged that some student leaders had even stayed at the residences of individuals associated with foreign embassies.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has instructed BNP leaders and activists not to organise any showdown or large gathering to welcome him on his return to the country Friday night following his official visits to Malaysia and China. The directive was conveyed to party leaders and activists through BNP Senior Joint Secretary General and Political Adviser to the Prime Minister Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, BNP Media Cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan said. According to him, only senior party leaders, senior ministers and high-ranking government officials will be present at the airport to receive the Prime Minister. Party sources said leaders and activists have been requested to refrain from gathering at the airport or arranging any show of strength in line with the Prime Minister's instruction. "Following the Prime Minister's directive, there will be no showdown. Only the designated individuals will be present at the airport," Sayrul said. Tarique Rahman began his first official foreign tour as Prime Minister with a visit to Malaysia on June 21 before travelling to China. The Prime Minister and his entourage were scheduled to leave Beijing for Dhaka at 5:00 pm (local time) on Friday after concluding the visit.

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Thursday said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s ongoing visit to China will further strengthen Bangladesh’s economic and strategic relations with the Asian power. Speaking at a press conference at BNP’s Nayapaltan central office, he said the visit will make a significant contribution to Bangladesh’s economic development and deepen the long-standing friendship between the two countries. Referring to the Prime Minister’s participation in the World Economic Forum conference in Dalian of China, Rizvi said Tarique Rahman’s speeches were well received by global leaders. He said world leaders particularly appreciated the Prime Minister’s remarks on climate change and Bangladesh’s efforts to address its impacts. The BNP leader noted that Bangladesh’s policy support for renewable energy, especially tax incentives for solar power, has been recognised as a major contribution to combating climate change. He said the government has set a target to generate around 20 percent of the country’s electricity from solar energy by 2030 and is moving towards achieving that goal. Rizvi, also and political adviser to the Prime Minister, said the visit reflects a shift from what he termed the “one-dimensional foreign policy” of the previous “fascist era” to a multidimensional foreign policy. According to him, Bangladesh is now witnessing a major shift away from the foreign policy pursued during the previous administration. The BNP senior joint secretary general said the government is implementing an independent foreign policy while safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and national interests. He said China has substantial investments in Bangladesh’s industrial, infrastructure and service sectors, while bilateral trade between the two countries amounts to nearly US$18 billion. On domestic economic issues, Rizvi opposed bringing small grocery shops under the Value Added Tax (VAT) net. “Small grocery stores have very limited income. Therefore, they should not be brought under the VAT coverage. However, those who have the capacity to pay taxes but remain outside the tax net should be included,” he said, adding that the government will continue to prioritise public welfare and expectations. Commenting on developments in India, the BNP leader alleged that a road in Kolkata named after the last Prime Minister of undivided Bengal and national leader Huseyn Shaheed Suhrawardy has recently been renamed. He noted that Suhrawardy was one of the founding leaders of the Awami League and a direct political mentor of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. “Despite this, Awami League leaders and their intellectual supporters have remained silent on the issue,” he said, describing the renaming of the road dedicated to a prominent leader of the subcontinent as an act lacking propriety. Rizvi added that institutions in Bangladesh still bear the names of various Indian leaders and said Bangladesh has demonstrated courtesy in that regard.

The BNP has started the final selection process for nominating candidates for the reserved women’s seats in the 13th Jatiya Sangsad, with aspirants appearing before the party’s nomination board. The nomination board began interviewing the aspirants on Friday afternoon at the BNP Chairman’s Gulshan office. BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi told reporters that interviews of those who collected and submitted nomination forms for the reserved seats started in the afternoon. “As per the party constitution, the nomination board is headed by BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman, and its members are from the party’s standing committee,” he said. On the first day, candidates from Rajshahi, Khulna, Barishal, Rangpur and Faridpur divisions are being interviewed. More than 400 aspirants are taking part in the interviews, Rizvi said. He said interviews for candidates from Dhaka, Chattogram, Sylhet, Cumilla and Mymensingh divisions will begin at 3:00pm on Saturday. Earlier, the Election Commission on April 8 announced the schedule for the reserved women’s seat election. According to the schedule, the deadline for submission of nomination papers is April 21, while scrutiny will take place on April 22 and 23. Appeals against scrutiny decisions can be filed on April 26 and will be disposed of on April 27 and 28. BNP has political track record of managing crises, achieving growth: Titumir Election symbols will be allotted on April 30, and voting will be held on May 12. The EC said all preparations have been taken to ensure a free, fair and peaceful election. According to seat distribution, the BNP-led alliance will get 36 seats, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami alliance 13 seats, and independents one seat. Since early afternoon, BNP aspirants and their supporters gathered in front of the party Chairman’s Gulshan office. Security personnel allowed only the candidates to enter the premises. Inside the office, a designated waiting area has been arranged for the aspirants. Highlighting the criteria for nomination, Rizvi said the party will consider the contributions of women leaders, especially their role during the last 15-16 years of political struggle. He mentioned that many women leaders faced harassment, including cases, attacks, and intimidation during that period. The BNP leader also said educational background, ability to speak in Parliament, and knowledge of lawmaking will be taken into account in selecting the final candidates. Rizvi expressed hope that the party will make proper evaluations in choosing the women members of parliament.

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General and Political Affairs Adviser to the Prime Minister Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Tuesday called for coordinated efforts to tackle the growing measles outbreak in the country. “The risk of measles has increased due to anti-vaccine misinformation, superstition and neglect in the health sector. The situation may become more complicated if effective steps are not taken quickly,” he said. The BNP leader made the remarks while inaugurating a rally organised by the BNP, marking the World Health Day 2026. The rally started from the Central Shaheed Minar and ended at the National Press Club. Rizvi urged the government, the Health Ministry, doctors and all those involved in public health to take joint action to prevent further spread of measles. Highlighting the importance of the day, he said World Health Day is significant for doctors, nurses and all those involved in healthcare services. Referring to this year’s theme, “ Together for health. Stand with science” Rizvi said the key message is to stay with science, as proper diagnosis, good health and effective treatment are not possible without it. He said the recent rise in measles cases is largely due to anti-vaccine propaganda and widespread misconceptions. “Even in developed countries, anti-vaccine groups are active which contributes to misinformation and superstition.” Rizvi said modern healthcare is the result of scientific advancement and people expect the government to respond quickly with necessary measures and support during any outbreak. He criticised past mismanagement in the health sector and said the current government elected by people is active but needs to give more importance to public health. The BNP leader also noted that the health sector did not receive adequate attention over the past 15 years and even during the interim period. Citing recent figures, Rizvi said 38 people died between March 12 and April while Rajshahi, Chapainawabganj and Mymensingh have emerged as measles hotspots. He deplored that seven children died across the country in the last 24 hours, stressing that such deaths deeply affect society and demand urgent action. Rizvi urged the Health Ministry and all concerned to act swiftly so that people can clearly see this is a pro-people government. The BNP leader said although there is a medical research council in the country but the allocation for research remains very limited, noting that meaningful research cannot be carried out with funding of only Tk200,000 to Tk500,000. He said the cost of research increases further due to a 23% VAT on journal reviews, and stressed the need for higher allocation for science and research. Rizvi expressed hope that doctors and healthcare professionals would play an active and timely role in tackling measles and similar public health threats.

The physical condition of BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, who is undergoing treatment at Square Hospital, is ‘slightly improving’. BNP Health Affairs Secretary Dr Rafiqul Islam on Thursday said Rizvi’s oxygen requirement has decreased. “Earlier, he needed more oxygen support. Now it has come down as his condition is improving slowly.” He also said Rizvi was diagnosed with a respiratory infection, but the latest medical report showed some improvement. Rafiqul, however, said doctors have advised him to remain in complete rest for the next few days. Rizvi was admitted to the hospital on Tuesday with breathing difficulties and fever. On Wednesday night, BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman visited Square Hospital to enquire about his condition. Tarique visits hospitalised Rizvi on eve of election Rizvi is receiving treatment under the supervision of Dr Raihan Rabbani at the hospital. His personal assistant Arifur Rahman Tushar said doctors have restricted visitors to prevent the spread of infection. “He has been advised to take full rest. After waking up in the morning, he asked about the election and voter turnout.” Tushar said Rizvi’s family has urged all to pray for his speedy recovery.

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi was admitted to Square Hospital in the capital on Tuesday. His personal assistant Arifur Rahman Tushar said the BNP leader was taken to the hospital around 3:00 pm due to breathing difficulties. He said Rizvi has been suffering from fever, cold and respiratory problems for the past few days. On behalf of Rizvi and his family, Tushar called upon people across the country to pray for the BNP leader’s early recovery.

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Wednesday expressed concern that fascism could reemerge in the country in a new form and through different tactics. “Fascism must not rise again. We all need to be careful so that no one can establish autocracy in a new way, with new tactics or a new appearance,” he said while speaking at the inaugural session of a views-exchange meeting with members of the Reporters Forum for Election and Democracy at a hotel in the capital’s Gulshan area. He urged all to remain alert to protect democracy so that no authoritarian force can return under a new guise. The BNP leader said people were not able to cast their votes freely over the last 16 to 17 years and the festive atmosphere normally associated with polling was destroyed. “Elections are meant to be a festival of people’s participation. But in the past, that environment was ruined through the capture of polling centres and intimidation,” he observed. Praising the role of journalists, Rizvi said reporters bravely highlighted many incidents during periods of political repression, which helped save the lives of many leaders and activists. He said there were times when party activists were picked up late at night. “Even when police denied it, journalists exposed the incidents. As a result, many people were rescued.” BNP to make women self-reliant if voted to power: Tarique Rizvi also warned that recent incidents suggest a rise in rude and aggressive behaviour in politics, which reflect a fascist mindset. He cautioned that any attempt to establish authoritarian rule by using religion will be even more dangerous. The BNP leader said if voting rights are ensured, people will make the right decisions and democratic forces will be reflected. Rizvi expressed hope that the next election will be held in a free and inclusive environment. BNP Standing Committee member and chief of the party’s central election steering committee Nazrul Islam Khan, BNP Chairperson’s adviser Ismail Zabiullah, and adviser to the BNP Acting Chairman and spokesperson of the election steering committee Mahdi Amin, among others, were present at the meeting.

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Tuesday strongly criticised Jamaat-e-Islami, saying that if the party continues to distort history, it may one day claim that Ghulam Azam proclaimed Bangladesh’s independence. “When the Pakistani forces carried out atrocities against our mothers and sisters, you (Jamaat) did not call those acts oppression. You did not even acknowledge those brutalities as crimes. Instead, you supported them and provided patronage,” he said. Speaking at a milad and doa mahfil organised by BNP at its Nayapaltan central office on the occasion of Shab-e-Barat, Rizvi questioned Jamaat’s motive behind speaking about the declaration of independence. Referring to remarks by Jamaat-e-Islami Amir Dr Shafiqur Rahman on the 1971 declaration of independence in Chattogram, he said, “In a few days, you may even say that Ghulam Azam himself was the proclaimer of independence. You can say that too, because you never step back from telling lies.” The BNP leader alleged that the Jamaat chief raised the debate on the declaration of independence to divert attention from his controversial and derogatory remarks about women, which have angered women across the country. Earlier on Monday night (February 2), while addressing an election rally at Bandar School Ground in Chattogram, Jamaat-e-Islami Amir Dr Shafiqur Rahman said the declaration of independence in 1971 was made from Chattogram. “Chattogram is not only a port city or a commercial capital; it is a city with a long history of struggle and resistance. The declaration of independence in 1971 took place here. One of your proud sons first shouted ‘We revolt’—he is Dr Colonel Oli Ahmed Bir Bikram, the respected president of the LDP. He held Ziaur Rahman’s hand and led him forward. Chattogram residents salute you. You were the ones who initiated this proud history,” he added. Reacting to the Jamaat chief’s remarks, Rizvi said the party cannot hide the truth by creating controversy over an established historical fact. The BNP leader also recalled Jamaat’s political role during the 1986 election under military ruler HM Ershad, accusing the party of breaking its promise not to take part in the polls. “Begum Khaleda Zia did not join that election. She endured years of repression, arrests and house arrest, but never broke her word,” he said, adding that Jamaat’s “true character” is now being exposed through its statements about women. Rizvi asserted that former president Ziaur Rahman was the real proclaimer of Bangladesh’s independence. “As a major, Ziaur Rahman declared independence and gave direction to the nation, calling people to join the Liberation War. Even those who worked alongside Zia acknowledged his role in their own writings,” he said. The BNP leader questioned whether people would accept such sudden political claims made for vested interests. He said Oli Ahmed never described himself as the proclaimer of independence at any point in his military or professional life. Rizvi said that even when Ziaur Rahman formed his party, Oli worked only as his assistant, and that these facts are clearly mentioned in his published books. Highlighting the significance of Shab-e-Barat, he said the holy night inspires self-purification and closeness to Allah, warning that social decay increases when people drift away from moral and spiritual values. Tarique to lead nation forward following Khaleda Zia’s path: Rizvi The BNP leader also accused some quarters of exploiting religion for political and commercial gains, saying Islam is not a commodity but a way of life for the country’s Muslims. Speaking on women’s dignity, Rizvi said Islam grants women the highest respect, but recent vulgar and offensive remarks on social media have caused nationwide outrage. “This anger cannot be suppressed by raising false debates over the declaration of independence,” he said.