BNP on Sunday submitted its proposal to the National Consensus on reforms, strongly opposing the inclusion of the July 2024 Uprising with same importance of the 1971 Liberation War in the preamble of the constitution. The party also opposed other proposals, including changing the name of the state, curbing the powers of the Election Commission, and the formation of a national constitution council. While the BNP agreed with the proposal to introduce a bicameral parliament and increase the number of reserved seats for women, it expressed differing views on the procedural aspects of these changes. A three-member BNP delegation, led by Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed, handed over the party's proposals to commission's Vice-Chairman Prof Dr Ali Riaz.  The BNP submitted written proposals regarding reforms in the Constitution, public administration, the judiciary, the electoral process and the Anti-Corruption Commission. BNP submits proposals on reforms to Consensus Commission Speaking to reporters later, Salahuddin Ahmed said the preamble of the constitution has not been explicitly mentioned in the commission’s proposal. The preamble is a vital part of the Constitution and the commission's suggestion to completely alter or revise it is essentially akin to rewriting it, he said. The BNP leader specifically objected to the proposal to equate the events of the 1971 Liberation War and the 2024 mass uprising within the same context. He said BNP considers this inappropriate and suggested that such matters should either be addressed separately or placed in the schedule section of the Constitution. Salahuddin also said BNP supports the preamble as it existed prior to the 15th Amendment, rejecting the current proposal to change it. Regarding the suggestion to alter the state’s name in the Constitution, he said the people of Bangladesh have long accepted the country's name through practice.  The BNP leader argued that changing the name would not bring any substantial benefits and thus the party remains firmly opposed to this alteration. About the proposals on election-related reforms, Salahuddin said their party thinks the independence of the Election Commission (EC) will be hampered if some of the recommendations of the Election System Reform Commission are implemented. He said BNP believes that the power to determine the boundaries of parliamentary constituencies and the national identity card service should remain in the hands of the Election Commission. "If the NID is handed over to a separate independent institution, then the Election Commission will have to rely on that institution repeatedly for all assistance related to the NID. We think it should remain under the Election Commission." The BNP leader also said their party does not agree with the proposal to grant the parliamentary standing committee the power to hold the Election Commission accountable. "We do not think the Election Commission, as an independent constitutional institution, should be held accountable in that manner." Salahuddin said their party feels the interim government should focus on the national election, not a referendum. "We think the national parliamentary election should be held now, not a referendum. If a political government is established democratically through national elections first, all discussions can take place, and decisions can be made in parliament." Prioritise removal of all associates of fallen Fascist from within state machinery: Jubo Dol's Murad He also said their party does not believe a constituent assembly is necessary for the extensive reform of the constitution. "A constituent assembly is formed with representatives from various professions when a new state requires a constitution… our state is not new, and we already have a constitution, although its democratic character has been destroyed," the BNP leader said. Since a new structure and democratic framework of the state needs to be built, he said they proposed significant amendments to the constitution. “Those demanding a constituent assembly have also suggested 69 amendments. We’ve proposed fewer, but through discussion, we can reach a broad consensus and create a revised constitution. If they want to call it a new constitution, we have no objection. There’s no need for a constituent assembly," Salahuddin said. Regarding the Anti-Corruption Commission reforms, he said there were about 20 proposals in the spreadsheet. "Out of those 20, we directly agreed with 11, and with 7 or 8, we agreed in principle with some comments. We opposed only one proposal." About public administration reform, Salahuddin said there were proposals on 26 issues. "We agreed on nearly half of them, and for the remaining half, we have our opinions and comments. Through detailed discussions, we can reach a consensus on these matters." About the Judiciary Reform Commission's proposals, he said their party agreed with almost all of the commission's proposals. Stay united against autocracy to restore democracy: Tarique "In our 31-point proposal, we recommended ensuring full independence of the judiciary, including transferring control of lower courts to the Supreme Court by amending Article 116 of the Constitution. We also support the proposal for an independent secretariat for the Supreme Court. Regarding financial management, we’ve suggested detailed discussions on future budget matters," the BNP leader said. He said they have proposed establishing a lower judicial council based on the Supreme Judicial Council model to ensure accountability in lower courts. Salahuddin said they opposed proposals, especially the formation of a National Constitutional Council with unelected individuals. "The core principle of the constitution is that the state should be governed by elected representatives, and this would harm that principle."

The BNP on Sunday submitted its proposals to the National Consensus Commission on key recommendations from five reform commissions.   The party submitted its written proposals on reforms related to the constitution, public administration, judiciary, electoral process and the Anti-Corruption Commission.  A three-member BNP delegation, led by its Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed, handed over the party’s proposals to commission's vice-chairman Prof Dr Ali Riaz.  Stay united against autocracy to restore democracy: Tarique Earlier on Saturday, the party expressed doubt that implementing some of the reform commission's recommendations might weaken future governments and empower unelected individuals to control state affairs. Speaking at a press conference at the party Chairperson’s Gulshan office, its Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir also questioned whether the commission had made the recommendations as part of a planned initiative.

BNP on Saturday expressed doubt that implementing some of the reform commission's recommendations might weaken future governments and empower unelected individuals to control state affairs. Speaking at a press conference at the Chairperson’s Gulshan office, party Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir also questioned whether the commission had made the recommendations as part of a planned initiative. “The state of the National Consensus Commission's spreadsheet and the varying statements from commission members and certain political parties show similarities. This raises questions in the public mind about whether all these aspects are part of a premeditated plan,” he said. Fakhrul also said it is difficult to determine whether the commission's recommendations truly serve the interests of democracy. "Upon reviewing the recommendations, it becomes evident that there is an unjustifiable attempt to appoint unelected individuals to state positions, which is unwarranted," he said. The BNP leader said the democratic character of the state and the people's ownership are reflected through the elected parliament and representatives. "But reviewing the recommendations of the Constitution and Election Reform Commissions, it becomes clear that it is better to create the opportunity for unelected individuals to govern the country, as politicians are unwanted," he observed. Fakhrul mentioned that their party would submit its opinions on the recommendations from the reform commissions to the National Consensus Commission on Sunday. No date set yet for Tarique Rahman’s return: Fakhrul “We’re responding to every single spreadsheet sent to us by the National Consensus Commission. We are adding comments alongside the yes or no options in the provided response format. We are fully cooperating,” he said. Asked which parties’ statements seem aligned with the consensus commission’s recommendations, Fakhrul replied, “As journalists, you can already see it, as many of the proposals have already appeared in the media. You will notice that they closely resemble the proposals made by certain political parties and individuals.” The BNP Secretary General said it is desirable that various reforms and constitutional amendments be made by giving importance to the democratic values, culture and religious sentiments of people. “All our reform efforts will focus on establishing a strong democratic political government based on broader national consensus—this is the expectation of the nation,” he said. In line with the aspirations of the mass uprising, the BNP leader said the people of this country are eagerly awaiting the realisation of their dreams for a strong democratic state founded on equality, human dignity, and social justice, free from discrimination. BNP stresses national unity, urges interim govt to maintain neutrality Fakhrul strongly opposed the recommendation to establish new commissions, including a National Constitutional Council (NCC), arguing that the descriptions of these commissions' jurisdictions and functions clearly indicate an intention to undermine and weaken the executive and legislative branches. “As a result, a weak and almost ineffective government system will be established in the future,” he warned. BNP standing committee member Salahuddin Ahmed also discussed the issue, explaining that the proposed commissions, particularly the NCC, would be structured in such a way that unelected individuals would be empowered to manage these institutions. “Proposals have been made to grant them constitutional authority. If these proposals are accepted, elected representatives will lose significance, and almost all key state functions will be managed by unelected individuals,” he said. Fakhrul also opposed the spreadsheet sent by the commission, which only offered 'yes' or 'no' responses. “Instead of presenting the proposals directly, they are framed as leading questions. For example, the spreadsheet asks, 'Do you support implementing the proposals through a Constituent Assembly? Answer Yes or No.' But the question of whether we agree on the concept of a constitutional assembly should come first,” he said. The BNP leader said the purpose of reform is to improve the quality of life for the people, ensure the security of their lives and property, guarantee accountability and the rule of law, and protect the independence and sovereignty of the country. Fakhrul said a charter of reform could be prepared based on the consensus of political parties, and an elected government would implement it later. Tarique warns against rehabilitating ‘fleeing autocrats’ He said the primary responsibility of the interim government is to organise a free, fair, and credible national election by implementing necessary reforms based on consensus and then transfer power to the elected government. "The elected government will complete the desired reforms of the people. Only an elected government, accountable to the people and committed to ensuring justice and good governance, can carry out the reforms that are acceptable to all," he said. Fakhrul claimed that certain advisers of the interim government have been directly or indirectly involved in the political party formation process, which has raised confusion among the public. “Various signs and evidence of using the administrative machinery in this process are gradually coming to light, which is in no way beneficial for the country and democracy," he observed. BNP standing committee members Mirza Abbas, Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku, and Selima Rahman were also present at the press conference.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Saturday said no date has been set yet for the return of party's Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman from London. “We haven’t fixed a specific date yet, but he will return when we believe it is the right time,” Fakhrul said. He made the remarks while responding to a journalist's question at a press conference held at the BNP Chairperson’s Gulshan office. Tarique Rahman, the eldest son of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman and its Chairperson Khaleda Zia, has been living in exile in London with his wife, Zubaida Rahman, and daughter, Zaima Rahman, for over one and a half decades.  On September 11, 2008, just eight days after being released from jail on bail, Tarique left for London to seek medical treatment during the military-backed caretaker government. BNP stresses national unity, urges interim govt to maintain neutrality He had been arrested on March 7, 2007 and was released on bail on September 3, 2008. On Thursday last, a Dhaka court acquitted Tarique Rahman and others in a bribery case related to securing immunity in a murder case, making him legally free to return to Bangladesh, according to BNP lawyer Borhan Uddin. In an interview with BBC Bangla, Borhan confirmed that, with all legal cases now cleared, Tarique Rahman faces no legal obstacles to returning to Bangladesh and resuming political activities. BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, who went to London on January 8 this year for advanced medical treatment, has been staying with her son. While there are reports that Khaleda Zia may return home next month, BNP leaders suggest that Tarique Rahman’s return remains uncertain due to security concerns.

Stating that there is no alternative to preserving the anti-fascist national unity, BNP on Saturday urged the interim government to uphold the highest level of impartiality so that no quarter can make undue political gains. Speaking at a press conference at the BNP Chairperson’s Gulshan office, party Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir also said it is natural for the Army to cooperate in the election, as they have done in the past. “The existing anti-fascist national unity is the main driving force of this country and its people. This nation must move forward by keeping this unity intact. There is no alternative to it,” he said. The BNP leader said the practice of this unity must be made the political culture of the country and no step should be taken that destroys or cracks the anti-fascist national unity and mass unity. Tarique warns against rehabilitating ‘fleeing autocrats’ “So, the interim government must maintain the highest degree of neutrality. A vigilant eye must be kept on ensuring that the agenda of any quarter to gain political benefits does not become part of the government's action plan,” he said. Fakhrul observed that the key priority at present is to establish a non-discriminatory state and social system, in line with the aspirations of the martyrs of the nearly 16-year-long anti-fascist democratic movement and the July mass uprising by upholding national unity against fascism. “All our reform efforts will be focused on establishing a robust democratic political government based on broader national consensus—this is the expectation of the nation,” the BNP leader said. In the continuation of the bloody anti-fascist movement and struggle for almost 16 years, he said the people of Bangladesh were freed from fascism through the unprecedented student-led mass uprising in July-August 2024. BNP condemns Israeli attacks, urges global action to stop Gaza bloodshed “In line with the aspirations of the mass uprising, the people of this country are eagerly awaiting the realisation of their dreams for a strong democratic state based on equality, human dignity, and social justice, free from discrimination,” the BNP leader said. When asked about the role of the military, he said, “The Army has cooperated in tARJ/elections before, and it is only natural that it will do so this time as well. We certainly have confidence in the Army.”  

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.

Strongly condemning the illegal and inhumane attacks by Israel on the Palestinian people, BNP on Friday called on the global community to take urgent action to halt the bloodshed in the Gaza Strip. “Even during the holy month of Ramadan, inhuman and brutal acts of violence are being carried out against the Palestinian people,” BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said in a statement. He said the Gaza Strip has been turned into a slaughterhouse, with over a thousand Palestinians, including women and infants, being brutally killed in indiscriminate airstrikes that blatantly disregard international norms. Despite the ceasefire, Fakhrul said the renewed attacks are illegal and constitute a heinous crime against humanity. “The international community must take immediate steps to stop the bloodshed in Gaza. This horrific and bloody aggression by Israel is a well-planned strategy to annihilate the Palestinian nation,” he said. The BNP leader accused the Israeli occupying forces of pursuing a strategy of dominance without any consideration for global public opinion. Why AL shouldn't be allowed to do politics under clean leadership? Questions Rizvi He urged the international community to take a stronger stance in halting Israel's expansionist aggression in Palestine, stressing the importance of maintaining peace, stability, and the security of people's lives and property in the region. Fakhrul prayed for the salvation of the souls of Palestinians killed in the Israeli military attacks and expressed his deepest sympathies to their loved ones. “I also wish a speedy recovery to the injured."

Two people were killed and 10 others injured in a clash between activists of Awami League (AL) and BNP over establishing supremacy in a remote char under Raipura upazila of Narsingdi early Friday. The deceased Amin, 23, son of Khorshed Mia, Bashar, 35, son of Barek Haji, were said to be followers of the AL, with Amin sustaining gunshots. Police and locals said there had long been a dispute between freedom fighter Abdur Salam Mia, also AL president of the ward No-9 unit of Chanpur union, his ally Sohag, joint secretary of the union AL and rival Samsu Member, president of the union BNP. Earlier, Salam and Sohag’s supporters had driven Samsu Member and his followers away from the area when their party was in power. Two killed in separate BNP factional clashes in Rajshahi But following the changeover in the country on August 5 last, Samsu and his group returned home and tensions escalated in the area. Early this morning around 5am, Salam and his followers tried to enter the area but faced a barrier from Samsu Member’s supporters, resulting in a clash between the rivals. The clash left two killed and 10 others injured. Of them, Amin was shot while Bashar was severely wounded by a spear and knife attack. The injured were taken to several hospitals and the bodies were sent to the Narsingdi Sadar Hospital morgue for autopsy. Clashes erupt at Kuet over banning student politics; BGB deployed Narsingdi Superintendent of Police (SP) Md. Abdul Hannan said they heard that two people were killed, forcing them to deploy additional police personnel to ward off any unexpected incident further.

European Union (EU) Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller met BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Thursday and discussed a range of issues relating to Bangladesh’s upcoming elections, reforms and bilateral issues. The hour-long meeting, which began around 11 am, was held at the BNP Chairperson’s Gulshan office, said BNP media cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan. BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury and Organising Secretary Shama Obaed were also present at the meeting. Chinese Ambassador meets foreign secy, discusses various issues Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Khosru said, “We had an extensive discussion regarding the overall political and economic situation in Bangladesh, as well as bilateral matters.” He said they also talked about Bangladesh’s upcoming general election, the ongoing reform initiatives, and the restoration of democratic processes. The BNP leader said the EU is keen to assist Bangladesh in building capacity to strengthen the electoral process and various institutions through reforms.

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.