[🇧🇩] Monitoring the political activities of BNP

[Saif]

BNP urges Dr Yunus to announce election schedule to avoid unrest

Stating that the delay in holding the next parliamentary elections is fuelling instability in the country, BNP leader Zainul Abedin Farroque on Friday said his party would be aggrieved if interim government chief Professor Muhammad Yunus were to depart in disgrace. “There appears to be a wav

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BNP urges Dr Yunus to announce election schedule to avoid unrest
UNB
Published :
May 23, 2025 16:47
Updated :
May 23, 2025 16:47

Stating that the delay in holding the next parliamentary elections is fuelling instability in the country, BNP leader Zainul Abedin Farroque on Friday said his party would be aggrieved if interim government chief Professor Muhammad Yunus were to depart in disgrace.

“There appears to be a wave of unrest sweeping the country. Who are the main culprits behind this instability? Who is attempting to delay the election? We wish to know these things from a great person like you (Dr Yunus),” he told a protest rally.

Farroque, a member of the BNP chairperson’s advisory council, said had the government provided a clear election roadmap, those who had taken to the streets during Sheikh Hasina’s tenure and faced countless cases and persecution could have engaged constructively and become election-oriented.

“But you (Dr Yunus) still haven’t given a roadmap. If this instability is of your making, then let it be known that the BNP will never accept responsibility for it,” he said.

Farroque, also a former opposition chief whip in parliament, urged the government to immediately announce the date for the next general election.

‘Aparajeyo Bangladesh’ organised the programme titled ‘Resist the Conspiracy to Foil the National Election – Rise, thevPeople of the Country’ in front of the Jatiya Press Club.

Referring to media reports about Professor Muhammad Yunus’ possible resignation, Farroque said, “If a respected figure like you is forced to depart in disgrace, it will hurt us.”

“Let your name be etched in golden letters in history, just as Justice Shahabuddin Ahmed’s is, by ensuring a fair election, holding voting during daylight hours, and safeguarding our right to vote… such a legacy will be remembered in history,” he said.

The BNP leader also urged the chief adviser to set an example by ensuring a peaceful democratic transition so that future generations could take pride in him as an acceptable and honourable figure of the nation.

“So, I earnestly request you to immediately send letters to these three individuals—Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan, Mahfuj Alam, and Khalilur Rahman—urging them to resign from the advisory council. Otherwise, it will fall upon you to remove them,” he said.

Farroque said reforms should indeed be carried out, but not in a way that would create a corridor to Myanmar or allow the Chattogram port to fall into the hands of others.

He cautioned against any reforms that might empower conspirators to delay the election and push Professor Yunus’s government into instability.

To overcome this instability, Farroque said, Professor Yunus himself must announce the election schedule within the next few days.​

 

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BNP to take responsibility for July victims if voted to power: Rizvi

BNP Senior Joint General Secretary Ruhul Kabir Rizvi today said if his party comes to power, the state will take full responsibility for the families of those who were killed or injured during the July-August movement

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BNP to take responsibility for July victims if voted to power: Rizvi

BNP Senior Joint General Secretary Ruhul Kabir Rizvi today said if his party comes to power, the state will take full responsibility for the families of those who were killed or injured during the July-August movement.

"Those who are now reaping the benefits of the July movement, holding key positions including advisory roles or even forming political parties, should be more attentive to the families of the martyrs," Rizvi said while speaking to reporters after visiting the family of Arman Molla, who was killed during mass uprising by students and locals in the Chouya area of Meherpara union under Narsingdi's Sadar upazila.

The BNP leader questioned why they [interim government] don't have the list of the martyrs "whose blood laid the foundation for this current [interim] government?"

He said the freedom people enjoy today is owed to the sacrifices of individuals like the late Arman Molla.

"It is heartbreaking that the children of a person who gave his life for the country's freedom have to live in an orphanage instead of their home," Rizvi said.

"We came here to stand by Arman's family. After the incident was reported in the media, BNP's acting chairman Tarique Rahman, a true leader of the masses, took notice and took responsibility for the family. He sent us here on behalf of the 'Amra BNP Poribar' initiative," he added.

On July 21 last year, Arman Molla was shot dead on the spot while participating in a protest in front of the Shilmandi Union Parishad in Narsingdi.

Arman's wife, Salma Begum, has since been struggling to support their three minor children. She has placed her elder daughter, Mahi, 10, and son Rafi, 7, in an orphanage, while she continues to live in extreme hardship with her youngest daughter Afra, 3.​

 

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No assurance about specific election roadmap from Prof Yunus: BNP

Though the party placed its demand for a specific election roadmap again alongside the trial of fascists and completion of reforms, the party leaders said they did not receive any assurance about it during their meeting with Chief Adviser Prof Yunus on Saturday. “Reform, trial [of fascists]

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No assurance about specific election roadmap from Prof Yunus: BNP

UNB
Published :
May 24, 2025 22:15
Updated :
May 24, 2025 22:15

Though the party placed its demand for a specific election roadmap again alongside the trial of fascists and completion of reforms, the party leaders said they did not receive any assurance about it during their meeting with Chief Adviser Prof Yunus on Saturday.

“Reform, trial [of fascists] and election came up for discussions at the meeting. We said these things are mutually exclusive,” said BNP Standing Committee member Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain.

He made the remarks while speaking to reporters after an over hour-long meeting with the Chief Adviser at his official residence, Jamuna.

Replying to a question on whether they get any response regarding a specific election timeframe, BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed said, “We made our demands… But he (Prof Yunus) didn’t say anything specific about it.”

He, however, said the Chief Adviser’s office may give its reaction in this regard later through a media briefing.

Asked whether they were satisfied with the meeting outcome, Salahuddin said, “No need to respond to this question.”

Earlier in the day, a four-member BNP delegation, led by Standing Committee Member Dr Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain, joined the meeting with Chief Adviser Prof Yunus as part of efforts to defuse mounting political tension in the country.

The other members of the delegation were BNP Standing Committee members Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan, Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury and Salahuddin Ahmed.

The meeting, led by BNP Standing Committee Member Dr Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain, began at 7:35pm at the Chief Adviser’s official residence, Jamuna.​

 

[Saif]

Abdul Moyeen asks not to malign BNP with fascist Awami League

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) standing committee member Abdul Moyeen Khan asked not to malign his party with the fallen fascist Awami League party. Instead, if elected, BNP will work for the welfare of the people if it gets elected to run the country, he said. “Don’t spread s

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Abdul Moyeen asks not to malign BNP with fascist Awami League
FE ONLINE REPORT
Published :
May 25, 2025 20:27
Updated :
May 25, 2025 20:27

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) standing committee member Abdul Moyeen Khan asked not to malign his party with the fallen fascist Awami League party.

Instead, if elected, BNP will work for the welfare of the people if it gets elected to run the country, he said.

“Don’t spread such a false narrative against the BNP that it will become a dictatorship. As many as 105 false cases were filed against the BNP Secretary General in the last 15 years. There has not been an incident of BNP filing a case against Hasina or its General Secretary during BNP rule,” he continued.

Urging not to propagate that BNP and Awami League are two sides of a coin, he said, “Awami League is a fascist party; BNP is not.”

He said this at a seminar organised by the School of Leadership (SOLE) styled “Socially Responsible Leadership & Good Governance in Bangladesh” held at the CIRDAP auditorium in the city.

The seminar was chaired by SOLE Bangladesh Branch President Prof. MM Shariful Karim, and Abdul Moyeen Khan was the chief guest.

Prof. Aliar Hossain, a geo-political & leadership expert from Northumbria University, London, presented the keynote with a research paper. Academics, researchers, business leaders and senior political leaders also participated.

“Many people say that if the BNP comes to power, it would become a dictatorship. I am shocked by such words. BNP has been running the country for a long time as a government. There were mistakes, but BNP has never played the role of a dictator,” he said.

During the 15 years of BNP ruling the country, the opposition parties had not been filed with any illegal cases to suppress opinions or used the law enforcers.

Khan also said not everyone is going to agree on everything. When we forget about diversity and try to achieve unity based on this, the dictatorship is born.

Jahangirnagar University Vice Chancellor Prof. Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan said the students have repeatedly sacrificed their lives to bring the country on the right path. But we, the guardians, have repeatedly failed. The students have sacrificed their lives in all the movements of 1971, 90, 24.

“But after the revolution, we have failed to maintain our consciousness. I am disappointed with the current situation. How much blood will the students give?' he questioned.

Gana Sanghati Andolan chief coordinator Junaid Saki, AB Party General Secretary Asaduzzaman Fuad, Bobby Hajjaj, Founder & Chairman of the Nationalist Democratic Movement (NDM) Hasan Hafiz, president of the Jatiya Press Club, and Mahdi Amin, adviser to BNP acting chairperson Tarique Rahman, also spoke at the event.

SOLE USA founding chairman Golam Rabbani delivered the welcome speech at the seminar demanding political reforms.​

 

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Announce election roadmap or lose BNP’s support: Khosru to govt

BNP senior leader Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury on Tuesday cautioned that the interim government risks losing the support of BNP and its like-minded parties if it stands against a democratic transition and fails to promptly announce a clear roadmap for the national election. “There is nothing

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Announce election roadmap or lose BNP’s support: Khosru to govt

UNB
Published :
May 27, 2025 16:40
Updated :
May 27, 2025 16:40

BNP senior leader Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury on Tuesday cautioned that the interim government risks losing the support of BNP and its like-minded parties if it stands against a democratic transition and fails to promptly announce a clear roadmap for the national election.

“There is nothing above democracy. If you (govt) stand against it, then those of us who established this government with our support for a democratic transition — our support is not a blank cheque, and that support will not remain,” he told a discussion meeting.

Khosru, a member of the BNP Standing Committee, however, said their party does not want such a situation to arise.

“We want the government to play a neutral role and declare a roadmap outlining the steps it will take for a swift and impartial democratic transition. It must assure the nation that Bangladesh is moving towards democracy in the coming days and that people’s ownership of the country will be restored,” he said.

Democratic State Council arranged the programme titled ‘10 Months of the Interim Government: Questions of Democracy and National Security’ at the Jatiya Press Club.

Stating that there is no disagreement among political parties regarding reforms and the trial of fascist elements, the BNP leader questioned, “Then why is the government so afraid of presenting a clear roadmap and holding the election?”

He said those who fear elections have no connection with the people, no relationship, no trust in them, and no confidence in the democratic order.

Khosru said BNP wants democracy restored and the ownership of the country returned to the people, as they believe in politics based on public trust and support.

He, however, alleged that a certain quarter is now trying to follow in the footsteps of the autocratic ruler Sheikh Hasina by blocking the path to national elections.

“Sheikh Hasina did not hold credible elections because she knew that in a fair election, she would not be elected. Now the question arises - who else fears not being elected in elections? Is that why elections will not be held in Bangladesh?” the BNP leader asked.

He said questions will arise about the neutrality of the interim government if it resorts to ploys in restoring democratic order.

“So do they (govt) have any ambivalence about returning the government’s democratic politics, and do they have any ambivalence about the elections? And what does it mean to bring in reforms and trials against the elections? These all are mutually exclusive and ongoing processes,” Khosru said.

He said five or 10 people think they are wiser and they will decide Bangladesh’s future by leaving people out of the process. “So, where is the difference between Sheikh Hasina and them? We see no difference.”

The BNP leader warned that the longer an unelected government stays in power, departing from democratic principles, the greater the risk of instability and the deeper the erosion of people’s rights.

Over time, he feared, even such a government will begin exerting pressure on the media to prolong its stay in power.

“Power is a dangerous thing. If someone tries to stay in power without a mandate, their attitude will inevitably become authoritarian — no matter what form that government takes. We are already witnessing signs of that,” Khosru said.

He warned that the longer power is delayed from returning to the people, the deeper the country will fall into instability. “You who have set this trap will ultimately be caught in it yourselves,” he said.​

 

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Election must be held within December: Tarique Rahman

BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has alleged that procrastination has begun over the upcoming national election and said that the general election must be held by December. He also called upon the youth and the people of the country to start preparing to ensure this happen.

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Election must be held within December: Tarique Rahman
Staff Correspondent Dhaka
Published: 28 May 2025, 21: 33

BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman addresses a rally titled "Establishing the Political Rights of the Youth", in front of BNP’s central office in city’s Naya Paltan on 28 May.Tanvir Ahammed

BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has alleged that procrastination has begun over the upcoming national election and said that the general election must be held by December.

He also called upon the youth and the people of the country to start preparing to ensure this happen.

Tarique Rahman made these remarks on Wednesday afternoon in a rally titled "Establishing the Political Rights of the Youth", held in front of BNP’s central office in city’s Naya Paltan. He joined the rally virtually.

BNP’s student wing Chhatra Dal, youth wing Jubo Dal and volunteer wing Swechchhasebak Dal jointly organised the rally. A large number of party activists joined the gathering.

Tarique Rahman said, "It seems procrastination has already begun regarding the upcoming national election. The future of the election is now entangled in debates about minor or major reforms. Amid this, the public has begun to suspect that some inside and outside the interim government may have ulterior motives masked under the guise of reform."

The BNP leader noted that around 35 million new voters have been added to the voter list over the last 15 years.

"These new voters have never had the opportunity to elect their preferred representatives through a national election. For the fallen, defeated, fugitive autocrat, people’s rights or fair elections were never a priority. Therefore, alongside the reform issue, the interim government must show visible preparations for the national election," Tarique Rahman added.

Recalling past elections held under caretaker governments, he said, "We’ve seen that caretaker governments have successfully held elections within three months. So there's a precedent in Bangladesh that national elections can be held in three months. But now, even after ten months, the interim government hasn’t announced a date. We want to see a government that is accountable to the people, elected by the vote of people in a country free from fascism."

Reiterating his call to the interim government, he said, "The national election must be held by this December. Once again, we emphasise — it must be held by December."

Addressing the youth and general public, he made an urge, "Start preparing now to ensure elections happen by December. Decide who will run the state and who will represent you — and vote accordingly."

Tarique Rahman also expressed anger over BNP candidate Ishraque Hossain not being allowed to assume his duties as mayor of Dhaka South City Corporation despite a court verdict in his favour.

"How can we expect meaningful reforms from those who do not respect the law or court rulings?"

Tarique said that mental and moral reform is more important than textbook reform.

Tarique Rahman appealed the interim government not to treat democracy-loving citizens and political parties as enemies.

“If any of you want to stay in power, resign from your positions, stand with the people, contest elections, and if you win, return to lead the government."

BNP Standing Committee members Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain, Mirza Abbas, Gayeshwar Chandra Roy, Abdul Moyeen Khan, Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, and Salahuddin Ahmed also addressed the rally presided over by Jubo Dal President Abdul Monayem Munna.​

 

[Saif]

Interim government failing to reflect public aspirations: Tarique

BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has accused the interim government of failing to grasp and respond to the aspirations of the Bangladeshi people. Speaking virtually on Thursday afternoon at a discussion event marking the martyrdom anniversary of former President Ziaur Rahman, Tarique sta

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Interim government failing to reflect public aspirations: Tarique

FE ONLINE DESK
Published :
May 29, 2025 21:54
Updated :
May 29, 2025 21:54

BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has accused the interim government of failing to grasp and respond to the aspirations of the Bangladeshi people.

Speaking virtually on Thursday afternoon at a discussion event marking the martyrdom anniversary of former President Ziaur Rahman, Tarique stated that many advisers within the current government are unaware of the suffering and distress faced by the public.

The event was held at the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh, in Dhaka, and was attended by senior leaders of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), according to local media.

Tarique Rahman criticised the interim government’s inability to set an election date even after ten months, claiming that the resulting uncertainty has cast a shadow over the country’s economy. “This delay is discouraging investment, and many factories are on the verge of closure. Even business leaders are being denied the opportunity to speak freely,” he said.

Touching on the issue of political reform, he noted that while political parties generally do not object to reforms themselves, there is growing frustration over delays in implementing them. “If the government takes a positive stance on reforms, elections can be held by December. BNP has made this demand clear. In fact, if there is consensus on reforms, elections could even be held before December,” he added.

Tarique emphasised that this is not about winning or losing for any party but about upholding the democratic rights of the people. “We call on the government to immediately announce the election date and schedule,” he urged.

The event was chaired virtually by BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, with BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia addressing the gathering as the chief guest.

Other key BNP figures who addressed the audience included Standing Committee members Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain, Abdul Moyeen Khan, Salahuddin Ahmed, Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku, Major (Retd.) Hafizuddin Ahmed, and Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi.​

 

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Tarique Rahman: National election possible even before December

The interim government was formed legally under a special situation after the uprising, but it is not accountable to the people under any circumstances.

en.prothomalo.com

Tarique Rahman: National election possible even before December
Staff Correspondent Dhaka
Published: 29 May 2025, 23: 05

Tarique Rahman, acting chairman of the BNP, joined the discussion virtually from London. The event was organised to mark the martyrdom anniversary of BNP founder and former president Ziaur Rahman on 29 May 2025. Screenshot from a video posted on BNP’s Media Cell Facebook page

BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman has said that the failure of the interim government to announce a specific date for the next national election, even after 10 months in power, has created political uncertainty in the country.

He believes that if necessary reforms are implemented, an election could be held even before December.

Tarique made the remarks while addressing a discussion virtually on Thursday afternoon. The event was organised by the BNP at the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh, in the capital’s Ramna area to mark the 44th martyrdom anniversary of party founder and former president Ziaur Rahman. Tarique Rahman was the keynote speaker at the event.

“If the (interim government) has the right intention and stands for democracy, we demand that the election be held within December, after completing the proposed reforms,” said Tarique, adding he believes that elections can be held even before December, considering the overall situation and consensus among most political parties.

The BNP leader urged the interim government to own the will of the people and immediately announce a specific date for the national election within December. “There is nothing about win or defeat for the interim government. Rather, please help democracy to win by presenting a fair election to the independence-loving people.”

Tarique also noted that the interim government was formed legally under a special situation after the uprising, but it is not accountable to the people under any circumstances.

He said the economy is almost stagnant, and investments are not up to the mark due to the lack of a stable and elected government. There is tension in different sectors, while the people have no option to convey their issues to the government.

He stressed the need for establishing public ownership of the state to protect it from autocracy. “The state as well as the government can be made accountable to the people only by establishing an accountable government.”​

 

[Saif]

Uncertainty created as specific polls date has not been announced: Tarique

Tarique reiterated the demand that the national election be held by December

www.thedailystar.net

Uncertainty created as specific polls date has not been announced: Tarique

Photo: Screengrab

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman today came down heavily on the interim administration, saying uncertainty has been created in the state and politics as the government is yet to announce a specific date for the national election, even after 10 months in office.

This has virtually brought economic activities in the country to a standstill, he added.

He was remotely speaking at a discussion organised to commemorate BNP founder and late president Ziaur Rahman on his 44th death anniversary at the Institution of Engineers auditorium.

Tarique reiterated the demand that the national election be held by December.

"The people are ready to vote for their preferred candidates and establish an accountable government. But the interim government seems to be failing to understand the aspirations of the people."

Tarique said that although the government took charge in a special situation following a mass uprising and may be considered legitimate, it is by no means accountable.

"Due to the absence of a stable, elected government with a fixed term, the country is not receiving the desired investments. The media, citing business organisations, have reported that hundreds of industrial factories have already shut down for various reasons. Many more factories are on the verge of closure. Such instability prevails in various sectors," he said.

Acting Chairman Tarique said that the public naturally has no direct communication with the advisers, resulting in many advisers being unaware of the problems, prospects, and hardships faced by people from different classes and professions.

"Some may be trying to identify and solve people's problems by sitting in offices and reviewing files. But if all problems could be solved solely through administration-dependent file work without direct communication with the people, then surely there would be no need for political parties or politics."

He said that every political party in favour of democracy has already submitted written reform proposals to the interim government, and no political party has any major objections to the reforms.

"But, there is certainly an objection to the government's unnecessary delay in implementing the reforms."

Standing Committee members Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain, Abdul Moyeen Khan, Salahuddin Ahmed, Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku, and Major (retd) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed also spoke at the event, which was virtually presided over by BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir.

​

 

[Saif]

Salahuddin accuses interim govt of delaying election in the name of reform

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed has commented that although the Chief Adviser has called another meeting on 2 June, it appears the process is bogged down in formalities and discussions without any real progress.

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Salahuddin accuses interim govt of delaying election in the name of reform
Staff Correspondent Dhaka
Updated: 31 May 2025, 18: 57

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed speaks at a meeting organised by Krishak Dal in city on 31 May Prothom Alo

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed has commented that although the Chief Adviser has called another meeting on 2 June, it appears the process is bogged down in formalities and discussions without any real progress.

Speaking as the chief guest at a discussion event today, Saturday, at the Diploma Engineers Institution auditorium in Dhaka, Salahuddin said, “It seems there’s no shortage of formalities and discussions, but no concrete action. On the 2nd, the second phase of discussions will again be ceremoniously inaugurated. You inaugurated the first round once, now you’ll inaugurate the second round, and perhaps again in the third phase you’ll merge everything together. This is how you are showing us the illusion of reform!”

The event was organised by the BNP’s farmers’ wing, Jatiyatabadi Krishak Dal, on the occasion of the 44th martyrdom anniversary of BNP founder and former President Ziaur Rahman. The discussion was styled “Ziaur Rahman’s contribution to the agricultural revolution in Bangladesh.”

"The honorable Chief Adviser has called us for a meeting again on 2 June. We understand the message—there’s no lack of formalities or discussion, but nothing productive is happening. How many times will you inaugurate reform talks? You inaugurated the first phase already, now the second, then the third—you’re just putting on a show of reforms!”

On 26 May, a meeting of the National Consensus Commission was held in the residence of the Chief Adviser with him in chair, where a decision was made that the second round of talks with political parties on reforms would begin in early June. The Chief Adviser is expected to inaugurate that session. However, no specific date has yet been publicly confirmed. It remains unclear if Salahuddin Ahmed was referring directly to this upcoming session.

Why this ego?

Addressing the Chief Adviser, Salahuddin said, “Why do you possess the ego that the nation must accept the constitutional reforms you and your commission have drafted? Why do you believe that the National Constitutional Council (NCC) should hold supreme power and render all other state organs powerless? Why are we expected to accept this?”

He accused the reform commission of proposing some unprecedented reforms and implied that the public is being forced to accept them. “This is starting to look like a new form of Baksal,” he said, referring to the controversial one-party system introduced by Awami League in 1974.

“We have already submitted our written suggestions, outlining the areas where we’ve reached consensus and where we agree in principle. Compile those and present them to the nation. Reforms are our top agenda, but even more important is the prosecution of those involved in crimes against humanity. Everyone must be brought to justice,” Salahuddin added.

He emphasised that any future government must remain committed to implementing reforms and justice. An independent judiciary will function as it should. Reform is a continuous process based on national needs.

Addressing the Chief Adviser, Salahuddin said, “Why do you want to hold the election beyond December? There is not a single logical reason. You keep talking about June instead of December. Elections must be held before December—that is our demand and the demand of the people of Bangladesh.”

He urged the interim government to publicly explain any justification for scheduling the election after December.

Shahidul Islam, General Secretary of the Krishak Dal, chaired the meeting.

BNP leader and President of the Bangladesh Football Federation Tabith Awal, Krishak Dal Vice President Col (retd) SM Faisal, Mamunur Rashid Khan, Nasir Haidar, Abul Bashar Akand, and leaders from Dhaka North and South city units also spoke at the event.​

 

[Saif]

BNP will get two-third votes if election held in December: Khandaker Mosharraf

Many of those in the government acknowledge that the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) would win by a margin of two-third votes if the parliamentary election is held in December, BNP standing committee member Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain said on Sunday. “BNP is the only popular party in the...

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BNP will get two-third votes if election held in December: Khandaker Mosharraf
Staff Correspondent Dhaka
Published: 01 Jun 2025, 17: 55

BNP standing committee member Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain addresses a marking the 44th death anniversary of former president and the party’s founder Ziaur Rahman at National Press Club, Dhaka on 1 June 2025 Prothom Alo

Many of those in the government acknowledge that the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) would win by a margin of two-third votes if the parliamentary election is held in December, BNP standing committee member Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain said on Sunday.

“BNP is the only popular party in the country and many of those in the government also acknowledge that the BNP would win by a margin of two-third votes if the parliamentary election is held in the coming December,” he stated.

Mosharraf Hossain was addressing a discussion organised by the Sammilito Peshajibi Parishad, a body of pro-BNP professionals, marking the 44th death anniversary of former president and the party’s founder Ziaur Rahman in the capital’s National Press Club.

The interim government will also have to leave one day, the BNP leader remarked.

“We think they will have the opportunity to leave respectably by handing over the power to the elected government if the election is held in December. There could be nothing more dignified than this. Otherwise if it is delayed you will face such a conspiracy that holding the elections would be uncertain,” he expressed.

The senior BNP also maintained that it will be delayed if the election is held in June.

According to him, this delay will create further opportunities for the fallen autocrat to conspire. Some of such incidents are already taking place.

He pointed out, “There will be the month of Ramadan and Eid-ul-Fitr in February and March. There will be public exams in April and May and June is the month of monsoon.”

That is why it is possible to hold the election in December. The government could announce the date whenever it thinks conducive, Mosharraf Hossain added.

Mentioning that the chief adviser has invited them for a discussion over reforms on Monday, the BNP leader said the government actions should be election-oriented if minimum consensus is reached.

He said BNP was disappointed with what the chief adviser said during his visit to Japan. “It has been said that only the BNP wants the election (in December). But who doesn’t want an election? Everyone. We have spoken logically rationality, let them spell out their logic.”

Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain highlighted various aspects of the life of Ziaur Rahman in the discussion that was chaired by another BNP standing committee member AZM Zahid.​

 

[Saif]

Salahuddin sees no valid reason to delay election beyond December

BNP senior leader Salahuddin Ahmed on Monday said most reforms can be done within a month if there is consensus, emphasising that there's no valid reason to hold the election after December. “We have been able to make it understood that there is not even a single mentionable reason to hold t

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Salahuddin sees no valid reason to delay election beyond December

UNB
Published :
Jun 02, 2025 20:47
Updated :
Jun 02, 2025 20:47

BNP senior leader Salahuddin Ahmed on Monday said most reforms can be done within a month if there is consensus, emphasising that there's no valid reason to hold the election after December.

“We have been able to make it understood that there is not even a single mentionable reason to hold the election after December,” he said while talking to reporters after coming out of the second phase of the talks with the Consensus Commission.

The BNP leader also claimed that during the meeting, they observed that almost all political parties proposed holding the election before December this year.

He expressed the hope that the Chief Adviser would now take into account the collective proposal of the political parties. “We hope that, as a symbol of national unity, he will act with complete neutrality, rising above personal attachment or emotion. The nation expects absolute impartiality from him,” Salahuddin said.

He said they believe the parliamentary election can be held by December. “Before that, we can identify key reforms, particularly those related to the electoral process, which can be undertaken on an urgent basis and implemented through consensus.”

The BNP leader stressed that there are no reforms that cannot be carried out within a month. “We have received a report today that several reforms across various sectors have already been implemented by ordinances issued through the Law Ministry. Many others are in the pipeline. These can be executed either by ordinance, executive order, or even office order.”

Salahuddin also said all reforms, except those requiring constitutional amendments, can be implemented within a month through ordinances, executive orders, or administrative directives based on consensus.

Earlier, a three –member BNP delegation, led by Salahuddin Ahmed, joined the second phase of talks organised by the National Consensus Commission at the Foreign Service Academy.

The meeting was held with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, who heads the National Consensus Commission, in the chair, aiming to resolve the disagreements over key reforms that hindered progress in the first round. All the parties involved with the reform initiatives participated in the meeting.

The other members of the BNP delegation are Ismail Zabihullah, a member of the party chairperson’s advisory council and Barrister Ruhul Quddus Kajol, former secretary of the Supreme Court Bar Association, said BNP media cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan.

This meeting was part of the ongoing talks that began earlier this year to build a broad political agreement on important national reforms.

The first phase of the National Consensus Commission’s meetings with 33 political parties took place from February 15 to May 19.

While the major political parties reached a consensus on most of the reforms, they disagreed on some key issues.​

 

[Saif]

Tarique to return home ‘soon’: Fakhrul

The BNP spokesperson said this while talking to reporters at the party chairperson's office in Gulshan this morning

www.thedailystar.net

Tarique to return home ‘soon’: Fakhrul

BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman will return home "soon", said the party's Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir today.

The BNP spokesperson said this while talking to reporters at the party chairperson's office in Gulshan this morning.

Asked about specific date, the BNP leader said, "He will return soon", without mentioning any date.

Fakhrul also highlighted the health condition of BNP leader Khaleda Zia in the briefing.

He said, "She seems to be in better physical condition than before. Doctors also said that she is much better than before."

The BNP secretary general had gone to Thailand for an eye surgery.

After undergoing the surgery there, he returned home the night before Eid.

He visited the BNP chairperson's office in Gulshan this morning to exchange Eid greetings with journalists.

There, he spoke about politics, elections, Tarique's meeting with the chief adviser in London, seat agreement with the election partners, the activities of the interim government, the reform commission and various other issues.

A journalist asked whether Fakhrul saw any possibility of a change in the election schedule after Tarique's meeting with Yunus.

The BNP spokesperson said, "I am a very positive person and I always want to see the bright side."​

 

[Saif]

Amir Khosru departs for London for diplomatic meetings

BNP Standing Committee member and Foreign Affairs Advisory Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has left Dhaka for London. He departed on a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight at 9:00 AM (Bangladesh time) on Wednesday, June 11, and arrived in London at 10:00 PM local time. The information wa

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Amir Khosru departs for London for diplomatic meetings

FE ONLINE DESK
Published :
Jun 11, 2025 23:12
Updated :
Jun 11, 2025 23:12

BNP Standing Committee member and Foreign Affairs Advisory Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has left Dhaka for London. He departed on a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight at 9:00 AM (Bangladesh time) on Wednesday, June 11, and arrived in London at 10:00 PM local time.

The information was confirmed by BNP Media Cell member Shayrul Kabir Khan, according to local media.

Party sources said the visit is part of BNP’s ongoing international diplomatic efforts. During his stay, Amir Khosru is scheduled to meet representatives of various international organisations, human rights bodies, and political analysts. Discussions are expected to focus on Bangladesh’s democratic crisis, human rights issues, and the demand for free and fair elections.​

 

[Saif]

2 BNP leaders expelled for life over arson at AL supporter’s house

Two local BNP leaders have been expelled for life over an incident of vandalism and arson at the house of a businessman who supports the AL in Puthia Monday. Rajshahi district BNP confirmed their expulsion in a press release Wednesday afternoon. The two expelled leaders are Anwarul Islam (Jumma)...

en.prothomalo.com

2 BNP leaders expelled for life over arson at AL supporter’s house
Staff Correspondent Rajshahi
Published: 11 Jun 2025, 22: 09

Two local BNP leaders have been expelled for life over an incident of vandalism and arson at the house of a businessman who supports the AL in Puthia Monday. Rajshahi district BNP confirmed their expulsion in a press release Wednesday afternoon. The two expelled leaders are Anwarul Islam (Jumma) and Rafiqul Islam.

The press release states Anwarul Islam, member of Puthia upazila BNP, and Rafiqul Islam, senior joint convener of Baneshwar union BNP and local UP member, have been expelled from all levels of the party, including primary membership, for life due to allegations of violating party disciplines against them.

The press release was signed by Rajshahi district BNP convener Md Abu Said (Chand), member secretary Bishwanath Sarkar, and joint convenor Saiful Islam (Marshal).

It has been learnt that victim Abdul Hannan is a wood trader and a resident of the Hatinada village in Puthia. He is a supporter of Awami League. But he is not involved in politics. At the time of the attack on Abdul Hannan's house, another nearby house was also vandalised. That house belongs to a member of the army. He was at home on Eid holiday during the incident. He had to hide to save him from the attackers.

Following the incident, Abdul Hannan filed a case with Puthia police station. Rafiqul Islam has been made the prime accused in this case.

Speaking to Prothom Alo Abdul Hannan said that his younger son Tushar Ahmed was having tea with his cousin at a stall in Nandanpur market of Baneshwar union.

At that time, Tushar had an eye contact with BNP leader and UP member Rafiqul Islam. Then Rafiqul beat Tushar. Hannan said he consoled his son and brought him home.

Abdul Hannan further said, “His elder son works in the army and was at home on Eid holidays. Shortly after his younger son was beaten, Rafiqul Islam came with his men and vandalised the house. Realising this, Hannan hid with his elder son in the ‘chatal’ of a neighbouring house.”

Rafiqul, along with his men, vandalised everything in the house. They set fire before leaving, which burned down the kitchen, the woodshed, and a small room. Two goats and a cow were also burned. Upon receiving the news, the police, army, and fire service personnel came and extinguished the fire.

Abdul Hannan claims that after 5 August, UP member Rafiqul demanded a toll of Tk 500,000 from him. Rafiqul threatened to beat him and set fire to his house if the toll was not paid.

Hannan responded that even if they killed him, he would not pay the money.

When asked why they demanded a toll from him, Abdul Hannan said that UP member Rafiqul is involved in BNP politics, while he (Hannan) is a supporter of the AL. That is why they demanded the toll.

This correspondent tried to reach Rafiqul Islam over the phone for his comment regarding the allegations against him. However, his phone was found switched off.

Meanwhile, Anwarul Islam, another expelled BNP leader, said, “I have seen the suspension order. The attack on the house owned by an Awami League supporter in Hatinada village is condemnable, that’s fine. It was wrong of member Rafiqul to do this. However, I am in no way involved in the incident. This decision has been unfairly taken against me. I demand the immediate withdrawal of this suspension order.”​