United News of Bangladesh

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.

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Saturday said their Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman would lead the country forward and uphold democracy by following the path shown by his mother Begum Khaleda Zia. “Khaleda Zia left behind ideals, moral values and commitments to the people that represent the highest standard of political ethics. We will move ahead by following the very path she showed us,” he said. Talking to reporters after offering fateha at Khaleda Zia’s grave, Rizvi said the BNP, all its affiliated organisations, including Jatiyatabadi Mahila Dal, and the country’s nationalist forces will continue to follow the direction set by their late chairperson. “BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, the eldest son of BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, has taken up the flag she handed to him and will lead the country towards new possibilities and a new horizon by walking in the footsteps of his mother,” he said. The BNP leader said Khaleda Zia endured severe suffering and repression but never allowed the flag of democracy to fall. “That example will guide us as we move forward. She remains our source of inspiration. Only by following the path she showed can we uphold democracy, protect the national flag, safeguard our independence and preserve our sovereignty,” he said. Rizvi said the BNP will continue its journey towards the goal for which Khaleda Zia fought tirelessly for nearly 45 to 46 years. Earlier, at around 11:30am, Rizvi, along with leaders and activists of Jatiyatabadi Mahila Dal led by its President Afroza Abbas, General Secretary Sultana Ahmed and Senior General Secretary Helen Zerin Khan, visited Khaleda Zia’s grave at Zia Udyan in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar. They placed a wreath at the grave and offered a munajat, praying for the eternal peace of the departed leader’s soul. Referring to Khaleda Zia’s imprisonment, Rizvi alleged that the Awami League government subjected her to oppression through false and vindictive cases, denied her proper medical care and even provided wrong treatment. “There was a deliberate plot to remove her from this world. But her unwavering courage, patience and determination proved that no threat could separate her from her people and her soil,” he said. Rizvi said the nation lost a leader who stood firmly for the people and democracy. “The entire nation is in mourning. Tears are flowing across the country. The massive public turnout at her janaza in Dhaka was unprecedented,” he said. The BNP leader said Allah honoured Khaleda Zia by granting her the status of a leader of the people, a champion of democracy and a symbol of human welfare. He also despite facing vulgar and offensive attacks, Khaleda Zia always showed restraint, dignity and decency in both her words and actions. “Those who resort to foul language are rejected by the people, while those who value courtesy, who face countless attacks and hear countless vile remarks yet never utter a single bad or offensive word are honoured by Allah,” Rizvi said. He observed that since Thursday, people from all parts of the country have been visiting Khaleda’s grave to offer prayers and pay their respects. Khaleda Zia passed away at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka on December 30 while undergoing treatment. She was buried the following day beside her husband, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, at Zia Udyan with full state honours.  

Prayers and special munajat seeking the recovery of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia will be held in every mosque across the country on Friday (December 05, 2025), said BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi. “Arrangements have been made at all mosques nationwide to pray for her swift recovery. The people of other faiths will also offer prayers for her healing at their respective places of worship,” he told a press conference at the BNP’s Nayapaltan central office on Thursday morning (December 04, 2025). Read more: Prof Yunus visits Evercare Hospital to enquire about Khaleda’s health Rizvi said Khaleda Zia has been enduring illness amid various forms of repression, and he urged people across the country to pray for her wellbeing. He also announced that the BNP’s “Desh Garar Karmasuchi” (Nation-Building Programme) will begin on December 7, with the party’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman joining virtually. Speaking about Tarique Rahman’s return to Bangladesh, Rizvi said, “He is deeply concerned about Khaleda Zia’s treatment. As the eldest son of the family and a national leader eagerly awaited by the people, he will make a well-considered decision to return at the right time.” Updating on Khaleda Zia’s health, he said her condition remains unchanged and she is still in a critical state, undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital under a medical board. Khaleda Zia was admitted to Evercare Hospital on November 23 with multiple health complications. Read more: Govt urges nationwide special prayers for Khaleda Zia on Friday Her condition deteriorated on November 27, prompting doctors to transfer her to the CCU, where she continues to receive intensive treatment.

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Saturday said their party would abolish the indemnity provision in the power sector if it returns to power. Speaking at the ‘CAB Youth Parliament 2025’ organised by the Consumers Association of Bangladesh (CAB) at Dhaka University, Rizvi said the indemnity law had legalised massive corruption in the power sector. “During the fascist regime, hundreds of thousands of crores of taka were looted from the energy sector. Using the indemnity law as a tool, money was siphoned off abroad,” Rizvi alleged. He said through rental and quick rental power projects, the previous government unleashed a wave of plunder in the energy sector, and the indemnity provision had paved the way for further large-scale corruption. “BNP stands firmly against such looting. Once in power, BNP will definitely repeal the indemnity,” he affirmed. Read more: Salahuddin slams ‘mismatch’ between July Charter and Commission report Rizvi said investment in the energy sector had declined and stressed that Bangladesh must start focusing on renewable energy now. “The previous government never thought about energy for people. Although the current interim government’s intentions regarding renewable energy seem right, their actions are not yet visible,” he observed. The BNP leader said that the party’s 31-point reform agenda places special emphasis on renewable energy, adding that acting chairman Tarique Rahman has repeatedly highlighted the issue in his speeches. “BNP has also pledged to plant 250 million trees across the country,” Rizvi said, adding that the party has always been serious about environmental issues. Apart from tree planting, our acting chairman has repeatedly talked about restoring the navigability of 20,000 km of canals, wetlands, and dead rivers,” he added. On the country’s renewable energy potential, Rizvi said Bangladesh needs to explore more alternative sources beyond solar and wind power. “Currently, only 4.71 percent of the national grid’s electricity comes from renewable sources. If Bangladesh can produce biofuel like Brazil—from sugarcane husks and other byproducts—it can make significant progress in this sector,” he said. Rizvi identified investment as the major challenge in renewable energy, saying that foreign investments are often delayed or blocked due to bureaucratic hurdles. “Overcoming these challenges is crucial to take the renewable energy sector forward,” he added. Read more: Fakhrul slams Jamaat for ‘spreading lies’ to mislead people ahead of election

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Tuesday voiced suspicion of a ‘master plan’ behind Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami’s call for a November referendum on the July Charter, suggesting it might be an attempt to delay the upcoming national election. “As for the referendum on the July Charter, now you (Jamaat) are demanding that it be held in November. But most political parties have already agreed that the referendum will take place on the same day as the parliamentary election. It won’t take extra time and will also save costs,” he said. Speaking at a discussion at the Jatiya Press Club, the BNP leader said if Jamaat insists on holding the referendum in November, it will hamper the preparation for the national election. “It will only create chaos. Which one will you finish first, and when? There is simply no time. If the referendum is held in November, the national election will have to be held right after Eid-ul-Azha. So, do you have some other master plan behind your call for the referendum in November?” he said. After long discussions, debates and arguments, Rizvi said all parties reached a consensus on the July Charter. “Now, by setting a new condition, why are you again trying to create disorder and confusion in the public mind? This question is now swirling in people’s minds.” He said people are also asking why Jamaat and some other parties are trying to complicate something that could be done easily and efficiently. Jamaat asks EC to be ready for separate referendum, polls days The BNP leader said the plan to hold both the referendum and the national election on the same day would save time and ensure a smooth process, while it is not possible to hold the referendum in November by making preparations in just one month. “But you (Jamaat) are trying to drag it out unnecessarily, raising suspicion that you want to delay or derail the national election. It seems that this political party, along with a few others, does not really want the election to take place. Their past record shows that they have never had any real commitment to democracy or the electoral process,” he pointed out. Jatiyatabadi Ulema Dal arranged the programme protesting the desecration of the Quran and derogatory comments about Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) by Islamic party leaders. The BNP leader also launched a strong attack on Jamaat-e-Islami, accusing it of misleading people in the name of religion. “Jamaat is behaving like the medieval priests who used to sell tickets to heaven. Saying that voting for them will lead to heaven is a form of deception.” Rizvi claimed Jamaat has formed online groups to spread false messages and religious propaganda through digital platforms. “They are using technology to confuse people and exploit their religious beliefs. Islam never allows this kind of manipulation. Religion is a matter of faith, not a political tool,” he said. He said such activities are damaging to both democracy and the country’s religious values. “Bangladesh is a Muslim-majority country where people deeply respect Islam. But using faith to gain votes or to divide people is unacceptable.” Some Advisers backing one party in secret, alleges Jamaat leader Rizvi also alleged that Jamaat has a long history of siding with the ruling Awami League when it suits their interests. “They always find a way to stay close to the Awami League. Even now, they are trying to benefit from the Awami League’s vote base through tricks and tactics. Their record shows no real commitment to democracy,” he said. The BNP senior joint secretary general urged all pro-democracy political parties to remain vigilant and united to ensure a free, fair and credible election under the interim government.