[🇧🇩] Monitoring the political activities of BNP

[Saif]

BNP came out stronger every time it faced obstruction: Amir Khasru

BNP leader Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has said the party has emerged stronger every time it faced evil-efforts to obstruct its progress. Speaking at a rally in Chattogram on Saturday, the BNP leader highlighted the party’s resilience, despite numerous challenges over the years. Central Ju

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

BNP came out stronger every time it faced obstruction: Amir Khasru
UNB
Published :
Nov 16, 2024 21:19
Updated :
Nov 16, 2024 21:19

BNP leader Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has said the party has emerged stronger every time it faced evil-efforts to obstruct its progress.

Speaking at a rally in Chattogram on Saturday, the BNP leader highlighted the party’s resilience, despite numerous challenges over the years.

Central Jubo Dal arranged the rally at Biplob Udyan in Sholoshahar of the port city to mark National Revolution and Solidarity Day.

Reflecting on the party’s turbulent history, Khasru emphasised the sacrifices made by BNP members, including losing leaders, facing imprisonment, and enduring hardships. “In the past, we had shed blood on the streets, gone to jail, and lost many of our leaders and workers. But through all those struggles, BNP’s leaders and workers only become stronger, like pure gold forged in fire.”

Khasru said despite concerted attempts to break the party, BNP has not only survived but has grown in strength.

“Whenever those who tried to stop us came forward, they themselves were destroyed. BNP stands stronger today than ever before,” he said, pointing out that those who once sought to dismantle the party are now a thing of the past.

Khasru, also a standing committee member of the party, warned against any future attempts to curtail the party’s momentum.

He also said it is the people of Bangladesh, not any individual or group, who will determine the country’s political future. “No one can take away Bangladesh’s democracy or dictate what the future holds. The people will decide the course of the country’s politics,” he asserted.

He reminded his audience of the past attempts to shape the nation’s political direction, pointing out that leaders like Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Ershad, and even Sheikh Hasina failed in their attempts to control the political landscape. “Let the people of Bangladesh decide. Attempts to impose decisions on the people have failed before, and they will fail again.”

Chaired by Abdul Monayem Munna, president of the Central Jubo Dal, and conducted by General Secretary Mohammad Nurul Islam Noyon, the programme was attended, among others, by BNP’s Organisational Secretary Mahbubur Rahman Shamim, City Mayor Dr Shahadat Hossain.​

 

[Saif]

The wrongs of past 15yrs must be righted

Having been the main opposition camp over the last 15 years, the BNP has been advocating for quick reforms followed by elections. Golam Mortoza caught up with the party’s Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir to talk about a host of issues ranging from elections to media freedom

www.thedailystar.net

The wrongs of past 15yrs must be righted
Says Mirza Fakhrul

Having been the main opposition camp over the last 15 years, the BNP has been advocating for quick reforms followed by elections. The Daily Star's Golam Mortoza caught up with the party's Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir to talk about a host of issues ranging from elections to media freedom.

TDS: As the secretary general of one of Bangladesh's largest political parties, what are your thoughts on the current political situation. A successful mass uprising has taken place, and an interim government has taken over. Your party has been calling for elections within a timeframe that is both "quick" and "reasonable." Could you clarify what you mean by "quick" and "reasonable"?

Fakhrul: Over 15 years of authoritarian rule destroyed the bureaucratic and political structures of Bangladesh. The institutions essential for a democratic state have been systematically ruined. As a result, following the student-led mass uprising, public expectations have skyrocketed. The primary expectation now is that this government will hold a fair and credible election, enabling people to form a parliament and government of their choice.

There is also another expectation -- to right all the wrongs done during this long bout of misrule.

TDS: How would you define a reasonable timeframe?

Fakhrul: There are a few minimum requirements. For instance, the electoral system needs to be reformed to enable free and fair elections. The heavily politicised bureaucracy must be overhauled to make it neutral and capable of facilitating a credible election. Similarly, the judiciary, which has been politicised, needs to be reformed to the extent possible. Complete reform might not be achievable immediately, especially at the grassroots level, but these steps are critical.

TDS: Your acting chairperson, Tarique Rahman, has also spoken about this logical timeframe, making it clear that there's no rush. However, some of your party leaders have mentioned that elections should be held by March or April, leading to some confusion. What is BNP's official position on this?

Fakhrul: We don't want to specify exact dates or deadlines because, as a party, we're being pragmatic. There may be some flexibility with the timeline, but elections must be held as quickly as possible for the good of the country and its people.

Having been in government ourselves, we understand that reforms require some time. However, we insist on timely elections because only an elected government can ensure legitimacy. The mandate of an elected government is entirely different from that of an interim administration. When we interact with foreign stakeholders, investors, and industrialists, they often express concerns about investing during the tenure of a temporary government. Timely elections will resolve many of these issues.

TDS: Regarding the interim government, particularly the current one -- there is a suggestion that although it lacks electoral legitimacy, it came to power after a mass uprising involving students and the public, with active participation from all political parties, including the BNP. Doesn't that give this government a mandate derived from the uprising?

Fakhrul: The uprising undoubtedly aimed for reforms. But that doesn't mean this government can operate indefinitely, like what we saw during the 1/11 period [indicating the government that took power on January 11, 2007] or similar situations in the past. An unelected government must not exceed its logical timeframe. Prolonged tenure creates various complications, including difficulties in maintaining international relations.

Additionally, anti-democratic and fascist forces often take advantage of such transitions. During 1/11, the government's attempts at reforms ultimately failed, forcing them to hold elections and leave.

TDS: As someone who has spent the entire life in politics, would you say that the BNP, as a major political party, practises democracy internally?

Fakhrul: I won't claim we do it perfectly well, but we are practising democracy. Our standing committee sits four times a month. Decisions are made collectively. The current situation has prevented us from holding councils everywhere, but we will address that.

Abolishing the caretaker government system was the greatest mistake. Elections under a caretaker government fostered democratic practices. In contrast, there has been no accountability in the last three elections. A country's democratic culture influences its political parties, and all of us must work together to strengthen it.

TDS: Are you concerned that the current government may delay elections or avoid them altogether?

Fakhrul: At this point, I don't see any indication of that. We've had both formal and informal discussions with the student leaders, and I haven't felt that they intend to delay or avoid elections.

TDS: You are advocating for elections, and the government is too. You're suggesting elections at a reasonable time, while the government wants reforms first. But the government hasn't openly stated any intent to hold on to power indefinitely. Doesn't this align the BNP, the anti-discrimination student movement, and the government to some extent?

Fakhrul: There isn't much difference in principle. However, several fundamental issues need clarification. For instance, some are suggesting rewriting the constitution rather than amending it. Even Dr Ali Riaz, who heads the reform committee, has stated that the constitution will be rewritten.

It remains unclear whether the constitution will be rewritten or drafted anew, or simply amended.

TDS: What's your stance on this?

Fakhrul: We've also formed a committee on constitutional reform, which we'll share with the government. We're willing to cooperate in making the necessary amendments to the existing constitution for governance. However, fundamental changes to the constitution should be entrusted to the people. Only their representatives can undertake such tasks.

TDS: But it was the people who carried out the uprising.

Fakhrul: Who exactly are "the people" behind the student-led uprising? Whose voices will you prioritise?

TDS: Those who led it.

Fakhrul: How do you determine that? This issue is being debated from many perspectives.

TDS: You were indirectly aligned with the movement. While you may not have been formally involved, the students led it, and the world witnessed that. Isn't that clear?

Fakhrul: We aren't denying that. We embrace it. We were also part of it. Our point is that any constitutional change requires the people's mandate. This government is not a revolutionary government.

TDS: Do you think they should form a party?

Fakhrul: That's not for me to say.

TDS: If they form a political party, shouldn't they leave the government?

Fakhrul: They absolutely should. Otherwise, the government becomes biased. You claim the government will remain neutral, establish a neutral Election Commission, and conduct impartial elections. But if you simultaneously run a political party and hold government power, doesn't that create a direct conflict of interest? If you want to discuss revolutionary change, then form a revolutionary government and run the country accordingly. But is your political party capable of handling such a transformation?

Take the Awami League in 1974, for example, when they implemented BKSAL. Even their intellectual supporters argued this should have been done earlier, perhaps right after the 1971 Liberation War. By 1974, however, it was too late, and the people rejected it. The lesson is clear: the people's verdict matters. And that verdict comes through elections.

TDS: What's your observation on the AL's politics?

Fakhrul: As I've said before, the AL has become politically bankrupt. You can see it for yourself. The AL is not only defeated but has turned into a despised party. Even within their ranks, those who are somewhat sensible would admit that the party has made grave mistakes.

TDS: Have AL members changed?

Fakhrul: No, I'm referring to those still in the country, not those who've fled. Even within the party, those who genuinely want to pursue democratic politics now believe their party has made serious mistakes.

TDS: When discussions arise about banning the AL -- given that its student wing, the Chhatra League, has already been banned --why does your party disagree with the idea?

Fakhrul: I'm a liberal democrat to the core. No matter how bad the AL is, it's an old political party with a long history. Who am I to decide whether it should be banned? That decision rests with the people. An elected parliament, formed through fair elections will determine such matters. The AL will eventually be wiped out through elections anyway.

TDS: A discredited party, accused of killing hundreds, is still led by Sheikh Hasina in exile -- if a proposal comes to ban such a party, will it be irrelevant?

Fakhrul: I didn't call it irrelevant. What I said is that it's not my responsibility to make that decision. That is for the people to decide.

TDS: Let's assume the BNP wins the next election and takes charge of the country. Would your parliament take the initiative to ban the AL?

Fakhrul: That would depend on the situation at the time. What the party decides at that point is something I can't predict right now. I can't say whether we would take such an initiative or not because it will ultimately be a party decision.

TDS: After banning the Chhatra League, there's been speculation that Chhatra Dal could also face a ban. Some argue that's why the BNP opposed the Chhatra League's ban. Is that true, or is this about upholding democratic values?

Fakhrul: Why view this negatively? Let's look at it positively. The Chhatra League had devolved into a completely terrorist organisation with no trace of democratic values. They wreaked havoc on the entire education system through their acts of terrorism. There are ample evidence and photographs of how the Chhatra League, acting as a political force, killed people during the student uprising -- you probably have more of that evidence than we do. The situation of the Chhatra League and Chhatra Dal isn't comparable at all.

TDS: I'm not comparing Chhatra League with Chhatra Dal. However, considering the allegations of Chhatra League using firearms, machetes, and cleavers to kill students, its ban has been justified. Yet, the BNP seems to believe that the decision was not right. Why is that?

Fakhrul: No one from our party has said that banning Chhatra League was unjustified. What we've said is that the decision to ban any organisation should be made by parliament.

TDS: Allegations have surfaced that BNP leaders are now engaging in the same extortion and land-grabbing that AL leaders were accused of. What's your take on this?

Fakhrul: You can't generalise such claims. Yes, there have been isolated incidents, and we've acted decisively. Over 700 members have been expelled for misconduct. We're well aware of the issue and remain vigilant.

TDS: Final question. There seems to be a growing narrative against certain media outlets in Bangladesh, particularly The Daily Star and the Prothom Alo, labelling them as accomplices of fascism, with even calls from some quarters to shut them down. Though this sentiment may not be widespread, it does exist. As the secretary general of a major political party, what is your stance on this, and what do you think should be done in this regard?

Fakhrul: Our position is very clear: we strongly believe in the complete freedom of the press. It was Ziaur Rahman who first brought this principle forward.

That being said, media freedom must be exercised with responsibility. For example, some time ago, a newspaper published a report claiming that all arrangements had been made for Begum Khaleda Zia to leave the country, but she refused to go. This was utterly baseless and a completely false report. The media must refrain from publishing such unfounded news, especially when it concerns national leaders. There must be a solid basis for such claims. Baseless reporting should not happen.

Right now, the media's most significant responsibility is to contribute towards ensuring that this government quickly holds fair elections. Another crucial role for the media is to avoid maligning the parties that are genuinely involved in the movement for democracy. These are our expectations. There may be differences of opinion, and that's fine, but deliberate misrepresentation is unacceptable.

We're vocal about press freedom. For instance, we welcome the decision to repeal the Digital Security Act and Cyber Security Act. This is a very positive step, and it is what we've been advocating for. However, we also want everything to be done with a sense of responsibility. In a democracy, rights are essential, but so is accountability. Everyone must act responsibly.

As for the calls to shut down media outlets or burn them down, we're entirely against such actions. Some isolated incidents may have occurred, but we've protested against them to the best of our ability.

TDS: Thank you very much for your time.

Fakhrul: Thank you as well. We're always in support of ensuring that you can continue to speak the truth freely.​

 

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A moment of truth for BNP

The BNP leadership’s pledge that no future head of government will abuse power or act arbitrarily must also be reflected within the party itself.

www.thedailystar.net

A moment of truth for BNP
The party’s reform agenda will achieve sustainability if it is accompanied by its internal democracy and promotes a culture of collective decision-making.

VISUAL: SALMAN SAKIB SHAHRYAR

In an otherwise high-profile meeting attended by diplomats from 38 countries and organisations, senior leaders from various political parties, teachers, journalists, intellectuals, and prominent citizens, held in Dhaka on November 14, BNP's Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman declared that, if elected to power, his party would not establish a family dynasty like the Awami League. Speaking virtually from London, Rahman pledged to build a prosperous and happy nation based on the 31-point agenda his party had unveiled in July 2023. He also committed to implementing a policy that would prevent any individual from serving as the prime minister of the country for more than two consecutive terms.

In the brain-storming session titled "BNP's 31-Point Outline to Reform the State Structure," 56-year-old Rahman said no individual, including the prime minister, can abuse power or act arbitrarily in the future Bangladesh. "Accountability will be ensured at every level of government, from the highest ranks of the state down to every government tier. If BNP takes charge of governing (the country), we aim to restore freedom of expression for all citizens, regardless of party affiliation," he said.

"Our goal is to build a state structure where no one will be harassed for expressing their thoughts on platforms like YouTube, Facebook, or other online mediums, even when commenting on the prime minister or other prominent figures. The mainstream and social media will not be compelled to conceal the truth, nor will the government pressure anyone to spread false information."

The promises are both welcome and reassuring against the backdrop of the fall of the autocratic Hasina government, brought down by a mass uprising reflecting the public's aspiration to reform the structure of Bangladesh's state and society.

With the Awami League—the immediate past ruling party and the BNP's chief rival—being forced to retreat from the political process, at least for the time being, after party chief Sheikh Hasina fled to India, the responsibility now rests on the BNP and its acting chairman, Tarique Rahman, as the major political force to lead the reforms demanded by both the youth and the broader public for an inclusive and democratic Bangladesh. Given the fact that the previous ruling party displayed traits of a fascist regime, the BNP leadership's pledge that no future head of government will abuse power or act arbitrarily must also be reflected within the party itself. Without genuine internal reform, such declarations risk being dismissed as mere rhetoric. As the saying goes, charity begins at home.

Notably, the powers and authority granted to the party chairman, as outlined in the BNP constitution available on its website, should be consistent with the state reform proposals the party advocates. Organisational culture flows from the top down, and for the BNP's reform agenda to gain sustainability, it must simultaneously demonstrate a commitment to internal accountability and inclusivity.

Having examined BNP's constitution, it is evident that the party chief wields near-absolute authority, calling all the shots, attracting all the spotlight, and essentially doing or undoing anything he or she wishes. For instance, the 19-member standing committee, the party's most powerful policymaking body, has the authority to revoke or temporarily suspend membership or take punitive measures against anyone charged with misconduct, breaching discipline, or engaging in anti-party activities. However, if convening a meeting of the standing committee is not possible, the party chairperson, at his or her discretion, may take immediate punitive action against any member deemed punishable in urgent circumstances or withdraw any previously imposed punitive measure. Nonetheless, such decisions must be ratified at the next meeting of the body.

The party chief emerges as the ultimate authority in disciplinary matters. The constitution explicitly states, "The aggrieved person may appeal to the Chairman against the penalty, but the decision of the Chairman will be considered final."

Moreover, according to the party charter, all metropolitan and district executive committees require approval from the secretary-general, who acts on the chairperson's advice. This provision starkly undermines internal democracy within the BNP.

The BNP chairperson is entrusted with immense power, enabling the leader to make key decisions and both enforce and reverse actions at will. For example, the party constitution grants the chairperson the authority to dissolve the 470-member national executive committee, the national standing committee, thematic sub-committees, and other committees. The chairperson may reconstitute these bodies, provided the decision is ratified by the next council.

Additionally, the party chief is empowered to fill vacancies in the national standing committee, the national executive committee, and thematic sub-committees. The chief may even alter the number of members in the national executive committee in special cases, though the total number of members cannot exceed the limit by more than 10 percent.

The party charter also allows for the creation of one or more organisational bodies within the BNP. However, no organisation is recognised as an affiliate of the BNP without the chairperson's approval.

Even amendments to the party constitution can bypass the national council under certain conditions. The charter states, "If any amendment becomes necessary due to urgent reasons, then the Chairman of the Party may amend the constitution, but the said amendment must be accepted by a majority at the next meeting of the National Council."

Given such provisions, it is imperative for the BNP to prioritise internal democracy and foster a culture of collective decision-making.

At the high-profile meeting on November 14, one speaker cautioned that if the state reform promises were not fulfilled, the BNP would be labelled by the public as a failure.

It is, however, reassuring that the BNP is not only discussing reforms now, but has been proposing state structure reforms since 2016. This consistent advocacy raises hope that the BNP is serious about implementing these proposals.

The BNP should remember that Bangladesh is on the verge of transitioning from authoritarian rule to a path of democracy, achieved through the sacrifices and blood of hundreds of people. This transformation is rooted in the sacrifices of the students and people during the July uprising, as well as the BNP's prolonged struggle enduring imprisonment and oppression. BNP leaders and activists have also faced extrajudicial killings and thousands of lawsuits. Certainly, no one made these sacrifices for yet another authoritarian and undemocratic regime.

Shamim A. Zahedy is a journalist.​

 

[Saif]

BNP unhappy as polls roadmap not included in Yunus’ address

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party on Monday expressed its disappointment over the chief adviser’s address to the nation as he did not unveil the election roadmap.

www.newagebd.net

BNP unhappy as polls roadmap not included in Yunus’ address
Staff Correspondent 18 November, 2024, 17:26

Bangladesh Nationalist Party secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir addresses a programme, marking the 48th anniversary of death of veteran politician Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhasani, at the National Press Club in Dhaka on Monday. | Star Mail photo

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party on Monday expressed its disappointment over the chief adviser’s address to the nation as he did not unveil the election roadmap.

The party also expressed concern over chief adviser Muhammad Yunus’ remarks during an interview with an international media outlet about his government’s tenure.

Expressing the frustration, the party’s secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir at a programme at the National Press Club said that they expected an outline of the next general election from the Sunday’s address by the chief adviser.

The party organised the programme marking the 48th anniversary of the death of Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani.

‘I am a bit disappointed. I was hoping that the chief adviser, with all his wisdom, would identify the problems and give an outline for the election,’ he said.

He said that elections could solve half of the country’s problems, regardless of whether or not the BNP would come to power.

Fakhrul also said that those who wanted to harm and destabilise the country and lead the country into conflict would be forced to back down with a government elected to power with people’s support.

He urged the interim government to move forward with a people-accepted approach saying that ‘we have not created any obstacles so far. Rather, we are supporting you in every case.’

Fakhrul also questioned how the government would carry out reforms while aides of the previous autocratic regime stayed in their positions at the Secretariat.

He also said that it was a fact that the students finally played the key role in ousting Hasina’s regime, though the BNP had struggled for 17 years.

‘So we should not create any distance with the students. Students are saying many things, and they have that right,’ he added.

The BNP wanted reforms to be done within a reasonable time. Oherwise, people would get the impression that the government had intentions to stay in power for a long period, Fakhrul said, adding that elections should be arranged after the completion of the necessary reforms.

He also recalled Maulana Bhashani’s contributions to the nation as a patriotic politician saying that ‘His presence is felt in our entire existence.’

Born in an ordinary family, Bhashani was an exceptional and legendary national leader, he added.

According to a UNB report, BNP senior joint secretary general Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said that the current interim government was formed with the support of BNP and others who had long carried out movement for the Hasina regime to step down.

Mentioning that they were still supporting the government, Rizvi said that the chief adviser’s remarks during an interview with an international media outlet about his government’s tenure for four years to carry out reforms were a matter of concern.

Rizvi came up with the remarks while addressing an event held by Amra BNP Poribar organisation at the National Press Club to distribute wheelchairs among 10 people who were maimed during the recent student movement against the Awami regime.

‘It’s a matter of concern for us. The country’s people want to know why four years will be necessary for the reforms and the election,’ he said.

Earlier, during an interview with Al Jazeera which, referring to earlier discussions, asked him whether his government might stay in power for four years, Yunus responded, ‘I didn’t say that I will be [in power] for four years. This is the maximum term. But that’s not our intention. Our intention is to get it [hold election] done as quickly as possible.’​

 

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Tarique Rahman smells a conspiracy

He made the statement while speaking virtually at a workshop at the Institution of Diploma Engineers in Dhaka on Tuesday.

en.prothomalo.com

Tarique Rahman smells a conspiracy
Special Correspondent
Dhaka
Published: 19 Nov 2024, 22: 59

BNP's acting chairman Tarique RahmanFile photo

The acting chairman of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Tarique Rahman, has urged leaders and activists of his party to remain cautious about potential conspiracies.

He made the statement while speaking virtually at a workshop at the Institution of Diploma Engineers in Dhaka on Tuesday.

The BNP leader said, “We often say that conspiracies have not stopped. From the recent reports, you have sensed it for sure that a conspiracy is underway somewhere. Therefore, the people must be made aware and brought to our side. We have to remain beside the people.”

Underscoring the need for an election, Tarique said, “Accountability is created through voting in a democratic and civilised country. Numerous leaders and activists have been subjected to forceful disappearance and killing while fighting for this right. The people’s right to vote must be established at any cost, with engagement of the people.”

He pointed out the lack of accountability and the people’s political rights and mentioned those as a priority task for his party.

If the politics of a country becomes sick, its economy is also bound to fall sick. If they both fall sick, then the education, health, judiciary, and administrative systems – everything of the nation will suffer, depriving the people of any benefits, he said.

Against the backdrop, he highlighted the need for establishing voting rights, saying, “Accountability must be established for fixing all these issues. And, it is possible only by establishing the people’s right to vote.”​

 

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BNP will form ‘national govt’ if voted to power

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir yesterday said his party, if voted to power, will form a “national government” with participation from all parties that supported them throughout.

www.thedailystar.net

BNP will form ‘national govt’ if voted to power
Says Fakhrul

Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir yesterday said his party, if voted to power, will form a "national government" with participation from all parties that supported them throughout.

"If we are elected, we will not run the country alone ... So, where is the problem? Where is the doubt?" he said at a discussion at the Jatiya Press Club.

Highlighting the need for holding an election swiftly to save the nation, Fakhrul asked the interim government to focus on specific reforms.

"The public has started doubting you [interim government]. The people in the government are creating confusion by making various remarks. Focus should be on fixing the Election Commission, administration, and the judiciary to prepare for elections. The remaining work will be done by those elected."

Mentioning the lack of political expertise in the current administration, he said, "Factories, which are major assets of our country, are being set on fire. Why can't they address this? … They lack the political strength."

"None of these people [advisers] have political experience. Politics involves specific calculations and equations, which only politicians understand," the BNP leader said, adding that delays in holding polls will only exacerbate existing problems and create new ones.

Referring to the recent protests by the students of Government Titumir College, Fakhrul questioned the interim government's preparedness.

"Were they not intelligent enough to foresee this? Why were preventive measures not taken?" he stressed.

Urging the government for an election roadmap, Fakhrul said, "We demand polls in the interest of the nation, not for BNP's benefit. We submitted reform proposals supported by 62 parties. Review them and decide on which ones will be implemented."

"Announcing an election roadmap will restore public confidence," said the BNP leader, adding that he wants the interim government to succeed in their endeavors.

"We don't want Hasina to return," he said.​

 

[Saif]

Election delay could lead to more conspiracies

BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman has said that a delay in holding the next general election will lead to “more conspiracies”.

www.thedailystar.net

Election delay could lead to more conspiracies
Says Tarique Rahman

Photo: Collected/File

BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman has said that a delay in holding the next general election will lead to "more conspiracies".

"The autocracy that was overthrown through a popular uprising is not sitting idle. They are continuously conspiring with their local and foreign masters," said Tarique, virtually addressing a programme held at Chuadanga town football field yesterday.

"The longer the delay in holding the election, the greater the problems will be in public health, education, farming, business, judicial system and administration –– problems that began during the autocratic rule," he said.

Speaking from London, Tarique highlighted the importance of a free and fair election held without any bias towards a particular group.

"Why are the BNP and other parties repeatedly talking about elections? Because we believe that today's interim government can hold a fair and impartial election. Only through such an election can the true representatives of the people be elected," he said.

Elected representatives can play a vital role in parliament and initiate steps for the country's welfare, he added.

"The interim government talks about reforms, but all reforms can only be implemented if true representatives are elected through polls.

"To change the fate of the nation, genuine public representatives are needed, and for that, elections are essential."

Speaking at the event, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir expressed optimism about the party's leadership and future goals.

"We are waiting every moment for our leader [Tarique] to join us. Once our leader is with us, we believe no obstacle will stand in our way. We will overcome everything and be victorious," he said.

Calling on the youth to play a vital role in shaping the nation's future, Fakhrul said only a representative parliament can confront conspiracies and guide the country forward.

"Elections are necessary because conspiracies and plots are being hatched in all directions now. Only the people can confront these conspiracies," he said.

Fakhrul said his party is in favour of some immediate reforms in areas such as the electoral system, police, administration, judiciary, and economy.

"After the election, any reforms needed in the future will be ensured. After the election, we will form a government with those who were part of our movement, and carry out these reforms," he said.

"To make these reforms sustainable, we need the people's support. How will we see people's support? Only through a free and fair election held without any bias," he said.

Fakhrul added, "Some new leaders are saying there will be no election until all reforms are carried out. The BNP does not want elections for itself. It wants elections to save the country."​

 

[Saif]

If election delayed, conspiracy will intensify: Tarique Rahman

BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman said conspiracy will increase if the national election is delayed. He made this remark while addressing Chuadanga BNP’s council today, Saturday.

en.prothomalo.com

If election delayed, conspiracy will intensify: Tarique Rahman
Correspondent
Chuadanga
Published: 23 Nov 2024, 20: 48

BNP's acting chairman Tarique Rahman addressed Chuadanga BNP's council on 23 November Collected

BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman said conspiracy will increase if the national election is delayed.

He made this remark while addressing Chuadanga BNP’s council today, Saturday.

Tarique Rahman said, “The longer the country’s elections are delayed, the more conspiracies will unfold. The dictatorship has been overthrown through a people’s uprising. The dictator against whom millions of people in the country had been protesting for more than a decade is still active. That dictator is hatching conspiracy with its domestic and foreign masters.”

“The longer the elections are delayed, the problems of the health sector of of the country, the education sector of the students of this country, the farmers of this country, the businessmen of this country, the judiciary of this country, the administration of this country, all the problems that this dictatorship has created, will increase. It is possible to gradually solve the problems of the country only through an election," the BNP leader added.

Commenting that the current interim government is capable of holding a fair election, Tarique Rahman said only if the interim government is able to hold a fair election, can real people get elected who will truly speak for the people and think about the interests of the people about solving the problems of each sector. This is only possible if real representatives are elected through a real election.

The BNP leader said the people of the country want to shoulder the responsibility of running the country to the BNP.

Urging BNP men of Chuadanga to understand the expectation of the people and act accordingly, Tarique Rahman said, “We must act responsibly if we are to take the responsibility. We have to make ourselves competent to take the responsibility.”

Tarique Rahman addressed the council of Chuadanga district BNP’s council held at Chuadanga Town Football Ground joining virtually from London.

He said real public representatives who will stand by the people and the country are exigent for changing the fortune of people.

"We have to unequivocally convey this message to the interim government and the people. Because, democratic countries of the world have gradually eradicated many problems through practicing democracy," the BNP leader added.

BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir inaugurated the council in the morning. The party’s cultural wing Jatiyatabadi Samajik Sangskritik Sangstha (JASAS) rendered the party anthem.

Mirza Fakhrul in his welcome speech said, “Sheikh Mujib initiated fascism in this country. Sheikh Mujib killed democracy. Awami League is synonymous with theft and corruption. The previous Awami League government resorted to terror while using the police for killing and enforced disappearance. A new sun has risen in the hands of students. We must be enlightened by this new light.”

Among others, BNP vice chairman Shamsuzzaman (Dudu) and Nitai Roy Chowdhury, acting organising secretary Anindya Islam, assistant organising secretary Jayanta Kumar Kundu, national executive committee member Azizul Bari, Chuadanga district BNP member secretary Sharifuzzaman, Meherpur district BNP president Masud Arun and general secretary Amjad Hossain, and Kushtia district BNP president Syed Mehedi Ahmed (Rumi) spoke at the conference.

District BNP convening committee member Waheduzzaman read out a condolence motion for the deceased leaders and activists of the party. A prayer was also offered for the martyrs of the student movement and BNP men.​