[🇧🇩] Monitoring the political activities of BNP

[Saif]

‘Cannot move forward with AL’s broken system’

Stressing the need for elections as soon as possible, BNP's acting chairman, Tarique Rahman, has said that the country cannot move forward with the “broken system” put in place by the Awami League regime

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‘Cannot move forward with AL’s broken system’
Says Tarique stressing the need for elections soon

Stressing the need for elections as soon as possible, BNP's acting chairman, Tarique Rahman, has said that the country cannot move forward with the "broken system" put in place by the Awami League regime.

"The more we delay democratic elections taking place in Bangladesh, the more the broken systems instilled by the Awami League for their own gains will be exacerbated," Tarique wrote on his verified Facebook page last night.

"We cannot move forward in building a better Bangladesh when society-wide issues in public healthcare, education, difficulties faced by farmers, challenges for businesses, political biases in the judiciary and civil service exist."

Tarique said that only an elected government, chosen by the people through free and fair voting, can begin rebuilding the nation.

"The public's choice of representatives will be respected, and the representatives in turn must serve the public. Both sides must be involved actively in governance so that Bangladesh can ensure equality, inclusivity, and development for all," he wrote.​

 

[Saif]

Tarique Rahman, 32 others acquitted in explosives case

A Gazipur court today acquitted 32 people, including BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman, in an explosives case filed by Joydebpur police

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Tarique Rahman, 32 others acquitted in explosives case
Tarique Rahman warns of conspiracy

Photo: Collected/File

A Gazipur court today acquitted 32 people, including BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman, in an explosives case filed by Joydebpur police.

Judge Bahauddin Kazi of the Special Tribunal-3 of the 2nd Court of the District and Sessions Judge of Gazipur gave the order after a long hearing, former president of the Gazipur Bar Association and senior lawyer Dr Shahiduzzaman confirmed to The Daily Star.

According to court sources, a parked bus was set on fire in the Khaspara area of Monipur in Gazipur Sadar upazila in January 2015.

Over the incident, Joydebpur Police Station Sub-Inspector (SI) Dilip Chandra Sarkar filed a case against 18 named and 40-45 unidentified accused.

In August that year, Sub-Inspector (SI) Emdadul Haque submitted a charge sheet to the court naming BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman and Manjurul Karim Rony, son of former Gazipur City Corporation mayor and late professor MA Mannan.

After a long hearing, the court acquitted all the accused from the case on Sunday as the case was proven to be false.

No lawyer represented the state during the hearing.

However, many lawyers including Dr Shahiduzzaman, Mehedi Hasan Ellis, Anwar Hossain, Nasir Uddin, Shafiqul Alam Milu were present for the defendant.​

 

[Saif]

Why is BNP so hard-pressed for the election?

I read in the news that chief advisor of the interim government Professor Muhammad Yunus has said that if the political parties do not want reforms, he will hold the election and step down. He may have said this in a miff or in anger.

en.prothomalo.com

Why is BNP so hard-pressed for the election?
Mohiuddin Ahmad
Updated: 24 Nov 2024, 19: 26

I read in the news that chief advisor of the interim government Professor Muhammad Yunus has said that if the political parties do not want reforms, he will hold the election and step down. He may have said this in a miff or in anger.

My question here is, Professor Yunus is not the owner of this country, nor are the political parties. The people are the owners of this country. Each party has a different aim, objective and agenda. They speak in their political interests.

The toppled Awami League and its allies milked the liberation war to the extreme for their material benefits. That business is now gone and so they are deliberately twisting Dr. Yunus’ words

They voice their demands. There are many political parties in Bangladesh at present. There were 39 political parties registered during the last election. A few more gained registration after 5 August.

Anyway, while all the political parties may not sing in the same tune, there is a degree of similarity among some. BNP is the largest of these parties. A sort vacuum prevails in the political arena. Those who were with Awami League have fled, or have burrowed themselves into holes, gone into hiding. It is still not clear whether Awami League will campaign for the election. There are differences of opinion among the political parties as to whether Awami League will even be able to take part in the election. Certain parties, BNP in particular, want Awami League in the election fray. Why could they possibly be wanting that?

My feeling is that, what will Awami League's dedicated voters do if Awami League doesn't join the election? Will they refrain from voting? If they don't vote, then the majority of the remaining votes will fall into BNP's lot, it is expected.

If Awami League's blind supporters cast their votes, they will certainly not vote for BNP. If they vote for any other party opposed to BNP, then the election equation may turn around. So naturally BNP will want Awami League to contest in the election and that no other party clinches those votes. Perhaps that's the calculation that BNP is making.

If the election is held soon, then BNP stands to gain in the prevailing political vacuum. The later the election is held, the more slippery will it be for BNP. The signs are already visible. Awami League may not be there now, but the misdeeds that it would carry out remain in place. And many of those misdeeds are being carried out by BNP men.

The media reports that many BNP men at the local level are being arrested for extortion, forceful occupation and other misdeeds. Recently a member of BNP’s central committee was arrested on charges of murder. BNP has expelled him. There is no dearth of people to carry out misdeeds in Bangladesh. They do not belong to any one party, but are sheltered and condoned by various parties. Awami League would say infiltrators are responsible for such deeds. They would say this in order to shrug of liability. BNP may do the same. But people do not believe this.

Mugging, extortion and killing continue. This trend will increase. Along with that, BNP’s popularity will begin to gradually wane. BNP fears that the later the election is held, the political arena will grow more adverse for them.

In this country no one is in politics in the interests of the people to place a smile on the face of the people. Everyone has vested interests. They will proceed accordingly.

BNP is not directly talking about the election, but wants a roadmap. Roadmap means, fixing a schedule for the election in advance. An election roadmap wasn’t a priority on the interim government’s agenda. There are certain centres of power in the government. One of these comprises the coordinators of the Students against Discrimination Movement. They do not want elections at the moment. They want reforms. Their question is, did not many people lay down their lives, so many people get wounded, just to put one party in the place of another? The state system must be changed first.

At the outset Professor Yunus would also speak strongly about reforms. He had even said, “First we have to recognise what the students have said, that we have pushed the “reset” button. Everything is gone, the past has certainly gone. Now we have to build things anew.” The toppled Awami League misinterpreted this as a denial of the liberation war.

The toppled Awami League and its allies milked the liberation war to the extreme for their material benefits. That business is now gone and so they are deliberately twisting Dr. Yunus’ words. But to me, his words spoke of a complete change in the manner that the state had been run in the past, the manner in which politics has been run. In other, it meant a severance from the pre-5 August trend and building a new order.

What will the benefit be if politics continues in the manner as before? It will simply means a huge movement every few years, an uprising, more lives lost. Then back to square one.

The political parties that are eager for power are prone to say that reforms are not the mandate of this government. This government’s task is to hold the election. My point is, this government doesn’t even have the mandate to hold the election. The government and the political parties must be able to read what the people want. The political parties are failing to read what the people want. They are learning nothing. The political parties are not being able to keep pace with where the people’s aspirations have soared.

BNP is supposed to wait for the election. After all, they could not display the power to topple the government. We can look to two examples here. On the day that BNP’s chairperson Khaleda Zia was arrested in 2018, the police faced no obstruction in taking her to jail. When BNP held a grand rally on 28 October last year, the police and the intelligence agencies dispersed them with tear gas and sound grenades. The gathering at BNP’s rally had been huge.

The political parties are lucky that the students’ movement reached a certain outcome with the support of the people. A sense of fresh air blows across the country now. Everyone can speak out. They must realise that the July-August movement was not under the banner of any political party. Had it been under the banner of a political party, it would never have been successful.

We need to think extensively about the election. The commitment of the political parties will be required regarding the reforms that are being mulled over. The government says that once the reform commissions hand in their reports, these will be discussed with the political parties. The election road map will automatically emerge then. So, why all this hue and cry?

In this country no one is in politics in the interests of the people to place a smile on the face of the people. Everyone has vested interests. They will proceed accordingly. For the past 53 years we have heard that the political parties speak for the people. Actually they speak in the interests of the cronies, their party and their party leader.

Over here, the political parties are the middlemen between the people and the state. I am not using the term ‘middleman’ in a negative or positive sense. This is simply reality. Each and every political party is a syndicate. The bigger the party, the bigger the syndicate.

There needs to be public deliberations on where we want to see the Bangladesh state in five years, in ten years. This state is of 170 million people. We cannot yet again lease out this state to any vested group or political party.

* Mohiuddin Ahmad is a writer and researcher

* This column appeared in the print and online edition of Prothom Alo and has been rewritten for the English edition by Ayesha Kabir​

 

[Saif]

Conspiracies still on: Tarique Rahman

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman said though the dictator has fled the country, her allies are still hatching a conspiracy. “Though the dictator has fled, allies are still in the country. Conspiracies are still going on,” he said while addressing virtua

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Conspiracies still on: Tarique Rahman
BSS
Published :
Nov 26, 2024 21:45
Updated :
Nov 26, 2024 21:45

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman said though the dictator has fled the country, her allies are still hatching a conspiracy.

“Though the dictator has fled, allies are still in the country. Conspiracies are still going on,” he said while addressing virtually a day-long 3rd divisional workshop 2024 on “31 points for repairing state structure and public engagement.”

BNP’s divisional training affairs committee organised the event at the District Shilpakala Academy Auditorium in the city.

Tarique Rahman urged the party men to remain vigilant against the conspiracies, saying if the BNP gets harmed, the country will get harmed.

“If we can continue the democratic process, we can take the country forward and keep the people safe,” he said.

Tarique Rahman said the path of democracy in Bangladesh has been affected in various ways. In the past 16 years, many people have been victims of enforced disappearance and murders; he said more than 1,500 people were martyred in the mass-uprising of July-August.

Tarique Rahman said 31-point state reform proposals were declared on behalf of all the parties involved in the struggle to restore democracy in the country.

These 31-point proposals include the maximum ones for repairing the state structure, and if any more logical proposals are placed, those will be added, he said.

After holding talks on the 31-point at the division level, it will have to be taken to district, upazila, and union levels to allow the peopleto know about it, he said.

“Many things are written beautifully in books, but people have to implement them. So if we have good intentions, we can do something good,” he said.

“If accountability can be ensured, these proposals can be implemented. If the continuity of democracy is maintained, accountability will be created. For this reason, we will continue the democratic process at any cost,” said Tarique Rahman.

A question-answer session was held during the workshop as the BNP acting chairman replied to questions from the party men and audiences on the 31-point.​

 

[Saif]

It’s time to rebuild the nation

BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman said yesterday that it is time to concentrate on rebuilding the nation as the country is no longer under dictatorship.

www.thedailystar.net

It’s time to rebuild the nation
Says Tarique

File photo: Collected

BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman said yesterday that it is time to concentrate on rebuilding the nation as the country is no longer under dictatorship.

He made the remark while delivering his speech as the chief guest after the final match of the "Shaheed Zia Memorial Football Tournament-2024" at the Shaheed Abul Kashem College ground in Barobari, Lalmonirhat Sadar, in the afternoon.

Highlighting the importance of nurturing talent across various sectors, Tarique said, "There are many talented doctors and engineers in Bangladesh. However, developing skilled professionals should not be limited to these fields. We must also cultivate skilled sportspersons and artistes. A well-rounded society needs individuals excelling in their respective talents."

He stressed that individuals should be identified for their specific aptitudes and supported to reach national and international standards. "By focusing on their strengths, whether academic, professional, or artistic, we can develop a skilled generation."

Reflecting on the legacy of his father, Ziaur Rahman, Tarique pointed out initiatives such as "Notun Kuri", a programme designed to discover talent in various disciplines. "If the BNP forms a government in the future, we will reinstate programmes like Notun Kuri to identify and train talented individuals to meet national and international standards."

Ensuring that players excel in international competitions, Tarique proposed focusing on honing their skills in their chosen sport.

He also emphasised the importance of skill development for future generations. "Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman established the Shishu Academy to ensure a bright future for children. We must continue building on his vision to shape a skilled and capable generation that can contribute nationally and internationally."

The programme was presided over by former deputy minister and Organising Secretary of the BNP Executive Committee Asadul Habib Dulu. BNP Standing Committee Member Mirza Abbas and Joint Secretary General Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Annie attended as special guests.​

 

[Saif]

Fakhrul sees increased chance of fascism's return

He questioned why those who had fought against fascism are now creating division among themselves.

en.prothomalo.com

Fakhrul sees increased chance of fascism's return
Staff Correspondent
Dhaka
Published: 28 Nov 2024, 20: 37

Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir speaks at a programme at the National Press Club in Dhaka on 28 November 2024.

The secretary general of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, has expressed concern that recent developments in the country have heightened the risk of fascism re-emerging.

“A dire situation is being created in a planned way, while the movement (July-August) is being diverted to a different direction. Some activities are taking place that are increasing the possibility of fascism's return,” he said while addressing a programme at the National Press Club on Thursday.

The Jatiya Kabita Parishad hosted the view exchange meeting with focus on the role of writers and artists in reforming the state.

Mirza Fakhrul disclosed his observation on recent developments and said the fallen fascism is creating a dire situation in a planned way.

He questioned why those who had fought against fascism are now creating division among themselves. He also noted ongoing efforts to divert the entire movement to a different way.

The BNP leader expressed disappointment that the handover of state power has not been peacefull even after 53 years of the country’s independence. Fight and blood shedding are always taking place.

He warned of the looming risk of fascism's return, saying, "Unfortunately, we are doing some activities that heightened the possibility of a return to fascism."

Regarding questions over the BNP's stance on ISKCON, he explained that their (the critics) only question is about the BNP's actions concerning ISKCON. This is a deliberate question. They want to create a situation. After failing in the first round, they are now trying again.​

 

[Saif]

BNP iterates call for vigilance over recent incidents

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party on Saturday called for a thorough review of the recent incidents, alleging that they were occurring behind the facade of religion, and urged all to remain vigilant.

www.newagebd.net

BNP iterates call for vigilance over recent incidents
Staff Correspondent 30 November, 2024, 17:28

Bangladesh Nationalist Party senior leader Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury. | File photo

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party on Saturday called for a thorough review of the recent incidents, alleging that they were occurring behind the facade of religion, and urged all to remain vigilant.

‘We must look deeply into the incidents happening in the name of religion. We need to be alert,’ BNP standing committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury said at the 7th National Council of Gonoforum, held at the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh.

Referring to recent developments in Chattogram and other parts of the country, the BNP standing committee member expressed his concern, terming the incidents totally unexpected.

Those who had not taken to the streets in the past 16 years were now staging demonstrations, he said, adding that other driving forces were behind them, and it should not be ignored.

Highlighting the challenges facing the country, Khasru stressed that moving towards a vision of a democratic and peaceful Bangladesh was imperative at the moment.

‘We need to take the country to the place we have always dreamt of. In the past, when this vision was not pursued, it gave rise to monsters. The only way forward is through a peaceful transfer of power,’ he said.

Khasru reiterated the need for democracy for restoring people’s ownership over the country.

He also pointed out that his party’s 31-point state reform outline was a significant contribution to future governance.

The BNP leader assured that after the next election and formation of a national government, implementation of the 31-point reform plan would be prioritised.

‘There is no need for others to worry about reforms,’ Khasru said, adding that the focus should be on electoral reforms to ensure the country’s return to its rightful owners—the people.​

 

[Saif]

২১ আগস্ট গ্রেনেড হামলা মামলায় তারেক রহমানসহ সব আসামি খালাস

 

[Saif]

Tarique acquitted in two sedition cases in Sylhet

A Sylhet court today dismissed two sedition cases against BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman, acquitting him of the charges

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Tarique acquitted in two sedition cases in Sylhet

File photo

A Sylhet court today dismissed two sedition cases against BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman, acquitting him of the charges.

Sylhet Metropolitan Magistrate Court's Judge Sagir Ahmed dismissed the cases filed in 2014 by the then Chhatra League leaders, confirmed Sylhet District BNP General Secretary and lawyer Emran Ahmed Chowdhury to The Daily Star.

The court dismissed the cases as they were filed to politically harass Tarique, he added.

On December 22, 2014, two cases were filed against Tarique Rahman with the Sylhet Metropolitan Magistrate Court on charges of sedition.

The cases were filed by M Raihan Ahmed Chowdhury, the former general secretary of the Sylhet District unit of Chhatra League, and Shamim Mollah, the former president of the Sylhet Agricultural University unit of Chhatra League.

According to the case documents, on December 15, 2014, Tarique, while speaking from the UK, made defamatory remarks about Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

The court accepted the cases and instructed the police to investigate the matter.

Earlier in the day, the High Court acquitted Tarique, former BNP state minister Lutfozzaman Babar and all other accused in two cases over the August 21, 2004 grenade attack.​

 

[Saif]

Unite against politics of vengeance

BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman has called for national unity to end the practice of political vengeance and pave the way for a new chapter in Bangladesh's history

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Unite against politics of vengeance
Says Tarique after acquittal; BNP satisfied, AL protests

BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman has called for national unity to end the practice of political vengeance and pave the way for a new chapter in Bangladesh's history.

"Let us unite to end political vengeance and open a new chapter in history, where no one's life or family will be destroyed because of political differences," Tarique said in a statement posted on his verified Facebook page last night.

He put up the post following his acquittal in the two cases related to the August 21 grenade attack.

"The beauty of truth is that it inevitably triumphs over propaganda and conspiracy, giving us faith that, eventually, justice and fairness prevail."

He also reiterated the BNP's commitment to fostering democratic values in the country, highlighting the need for diversity and inclusion.

"We pledge to uphold the spirit of democracy that thrives on diversity of faiths, beliefs, and ideologies, empowering the people of Bangladesh to define their own fate through electoral participation," he said in a statement.

Highlighting his vision for the nation, Tarique expressed his aspirations, saying, "In that journey, we aspire to establish the rule of law, human rights, and freedom of expression, safeguarding the rights and liberties of every citizen and building an inclusive, tolerant, and rules-based society."

BNP REACTION

The BNP expressed satisfaction over the High Court verdict acquitting Tarique and other accused in the August 21 grenade attack cases.

The party leaders also viewed this verdict as proof that all the cases filed against Tarique were politically motivated and part of conspiracies.

At a press conference at the party's Nayapaltan central office, BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi hailed the verdict, saying, "Justice has been served... Tarique and other accused in the two cases had been deprived of justice under the Awami League government."

Rizvi said that the cases were manipulated during the tenure of the Awami League, specifically accusing retired police officer Abdul Kahar Akhand, who was reappointed as the investigation officer, of having "malicious intentions."

Following the announcement of the verdict, party leaders and activists brought out a celebratory rally in the Nayapaltan area.

In a statement issued from London, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said, "Through this verdict, it has been proven that all the cases filed against Tarique Rahman were part of a political conspiracy."

In a separate programme, the party's standing committee Member Mirza Abbas said the grenade attack was a "planned act by a foreign power" and had no connection to the BNP.

"A foreign power carried out this heinous act to frame Begum Khaleda Zia and our leader, Tarique Rahman," he said in a programme at the Jatiya Press Club yesterday.

Abbas called the verdict "good news for justice" during the month of victory and expressed hope for Tarique's safe return to Bangladesh.

AWAMI LEAGUE PROTESTS

Mahbubul Alam Hanif, joint general secretary of the Awami League central committee, condemned and protested the acquittal of all individuals sentenced to death and life imprisonment in the cases.

"Today's verdict proves that the government has completely hijacked the judiciary," he said in a statement yesterday.

Hanif said, "We have seen the practical implementation of Dr Yunus's 'reset button' through this verdict. He wanted to erase everything from our memories. This is a part of the ongoing conspiracy to completely erase an incident like the horrific massacre of August 21."

"This farcical verdict is a disgrace to the nation, despite having clear and specific evidence. In November 2008, Mufti Abdul Hannan, a leader of Harkat-ul-Jihad, was arrested. In his statement presented to the court, Hannan confessed that with the assistance of top figures in the BNP-Jamaat government, he carried out the grenade attack on the Awami League rally," he said in a statement.

"Today's verdict once again demonstrates that this government has completely held the judiciary hostage. The culture of impunity and mob justice prevalent in the country will soon demand a heavy price," he added.​

 

[Saif]

২১ আগস্ট গ্রেনেড হামলা মামলায় সব আসামিকে খালাস দিয়েছে হাইকোর্ট

 

[Saif]

Tarique’s acquittal proves cases were politically motivated: Fakhrul

Expressing relief over the High Court’s acquittal of Tarique Rahman in the August 21 grenade attack cases, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir stated on Sunday said this verdict has manifested all the cases filed against their party's Acting Chairman was politically motivated an

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Tarique’s acquittal proves cases were politically motivated: Fakhrul
UNB
Published :
Dec 01, 2024 17:44
Updated :
Dec 01, 2024 17:44

Expressing relief over the High Court’s acquittal of Tarique Rahman in the August 21 grenade attack cases, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir stated on Sunday said this verdict has manifested all the cases filed against their party's Acting Chairman was politically motivated and conspiratorial.

“Tarique Rahman was acquitted by the High Court after legally facing the charges brought against him,” he said in a statement.

Fakhrul, now in London, issued the statement following the High Court’s verdict in the two cases filed over the August 21 grenade attack. The judgement has shown that the Awami ‘fascist’ government accused Tarique Rahman in these cases with political motives, he said.

“Through this historic verdict, it has been demonstrated once again that all the cases filed against Tarique Rahman were political conspiracies,” Fakhrul said.

He expressed his gratitude to Allah for the verdict and called upon party leaders and activists across the country to pray for Tarique’s well-being.

Earlier, at a press conference at the BNP’s Nayapaltan central office, party Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi expressed his satisfaction, saying that justice has been served as the High Court acquitted Tarique Rahman and the others convicted in the two cases.

Rizvi said when retired police officer Abdul Kahar Akhand was reappointed and made the investigation officer (IO) of the cases during the Awami League rule, it became clear to them that the government had malicious intentions.

The BNP leader also alleged that the Awami League government had used state power to forcibly convict Tarique Rahman and other BNP leaders in the cases. “We have got the proper judgement from the apex court. Some of the justice for which we have been engaged in a long political struggle has been reflected in the verdict,” he said.

Earlier in the day, the High Court (HC) had overturned the verdict of a lower court in two cases filed over the August 21 grenade attack, acquitting all convicts, including BNP’s Acting Chairperson Tarique Rahman and former state minister for home affairs Lutfozzaman Babar.

An HC bench comprising Justice AKM Asaduzzaman and Justice Syed Enayet Hossain delivered the judgement on Sunday.

The court also declared the charge sheet in the case illegal.

The grenade attack, a shocking incident, occurred on Dhaka’s Bangabandhu Avenue on August 21, 2004.​

 

[Saif]

BNP’s road march towards Indian High Commission Sunday

Three BNP associate bodies - Jatiyatabadi Jubo Dal, Swechchasebak Dal, and Chhatra Dal - will stage a road march towards the Indian High Commission in Dhaka on Sunday to protest the attack on the Bangladesh mission in Agartala and the desecration of the country's national flag. The programme

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

BNP’s road march towards Indian High Commission Sunday
UNB
Published :
Dec 07, 2024 21:00
Updated :
Dec 07, 2024 21:00

Three BNP associate bodies - Jatiyatabadi Jubo Dal, Swechchasebak Dal, and Chhatra Dal - will stage a road march towards the Indian High Commission in Dhaka on Sunday to protest the attack on the Bangladesh mission in Agartala and the desecration of the country's national flag.

The programme is also intended to register protests against what the party describes as an Indian plot to incite communal riots in Bangladesh, said a party press release on Saturday.

The leaders and activists of the three organisations are scheduled to begin the march from BNP's Nayapaltan central office at 10am.

They will submit a memorandum to the Indian High Commission in this regard.​

 

[Saif]

Tarique seeks accountability of all, from PM to UP members

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Saturday stated that the party's primary objective is to ensure accountability in Bangladesh, where everyone, from the Prime Minister to Union Parishad Members, is accountable to people for their actions. "We want to create an atmosphere of accountability

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Tarique seeks accountability of all, from PM to UP members
UNB
Published :
Dec 07, 2024 20:58
Updated :
Dec 07, 2024 20:58

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Saturday stated that the party's primary objective is to ensure accountability in Bangladesh, where everyone, from the Prime Minister to Union Parishad Members, is accountable to people for their actions.

"We want to create an atmosphere of accountability in the country. As a political party, this is our main objective... From the Prime Minister to Union Parishad members, Upazila chairman, ministers, MPs, and all other levels, everyone must remain accountable," he said while virtually addressing a workshop in Faridpur.

At the same time, Tarique said everyone at all levels in government and semi-government offices and institutions must be accountable to the people.

"We must ensure accountability everywhere. It's not something that can be achieved overnight, but it is possible... If you think about your family, it thrives because of accountability," he said.

The workshop, titled "31-Point State Structure Reform Proposal and Public Engagement," was organised by the BNP Training Affairs Committee at the Faridpur Sadar Upazila Complex.

Tarique said corruption, anarchy, breakdowns in law and order, and other misdeeds occurred during the autocratic regime of Sheikh Hasina due to a complete lack of accountability.

He said the Awami League arranged one-sided elections repeatedly, while its leaders and workers indulged in widespread looting and siphoning vast amounts of money abroad-again, due to the absence of accountability to the people.

"So, we aim to address corruption, establish the rule of law, and strengthen the healthcare sector so that people can receive proper treatment. We also want to create an environment where students can access quality education in the country. As a political activist, I believe much can be achieved if accountability is established," the BNP leader said.

He said a free and fair election is essential to restore accountability, reclaim people's lost rights, and implement BNP's 31-point proposal for gradually building a desired Bangladesh. "It's only natural that a party like the BNP would call for a fair election. To make this happen, everyone has to play their part."

The BNP leader recalled how the people from all walks of life united to force the autocratic Awami League regime to flee the country. "Similarly, we must all unite to establish our rights."

"If we want to achieve our goals, I need cooperation from all leaders and workers. The first condition for this cooperation is maintaining people's confidence. To do that, we must act, speak, and behave according to the will of the people," he said.

The BNP leader acknowledged that some party leaders and activists might be making mistakes and must be corrected. "We must stay alert and warn them, and in some cases, we must take firmer action."

Tarique said people's confidence is the most precious asset of any political party, its leaders, and its activists. "We will lose everything if we lose the people's confidence. So, let's pledge to preserve it. If we sit idle at home thinking that people already trust the BNP, that confidence will gradually erode."

Correct Yourselves

Tarique called upon his party colleagues to correct themselves first to retain people's confidence and fight against extortion, corruption and immoral activities.

"Correct yourselves first and then tell others to amend them. Otherwise, there's no point of talking big (about eliminating immoral activities and extortion," he said.

Two leaders drew Tarique's attention to various immoral activities and extortion by some party leaders, and asked whether the BNP would take steps for forming a commission or a body to take action if the any of its leaders and workers indulge in inhumane, anti-social and extortion or other misdeeds using the influence of the party.

Responding to the question, Tarique, said. "If any of you has done such an immoral act, correct yourself first. We may have some bad people in our party, who are doing bad and immoral things. We have already taken action against many of them.

He said their party is taking all out organisational actions whenever it receives any such complaint against anyone.

Even the BNP leader said they are taking extreme measures by urging the administration with written complaints against those who belong to the BNP are doing excess. "The key is to correct you first, and then encourage others to do the same."

Tarique urged the party rank and file to refrain from doing anything that undermines the public confidence in BNP.

He said their party wants stability to restore in Bangladesh promptly so that the existing problems can be addressed properly.​

 

[Saif]

BNP front wings march towards Indian mission, urge action

Police stopped the joint procession of the affiliated organisations of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party near Rampura Bridge on Sunday as it was marching towards the Indian high commission in Dhaka from the party’s central office at Naya Paltan...

www.newagebd.net

BNP front wings march towards Indian mission, urge action
Staff Correspondent 08 December, 2024, 12:19

The police stop the joint procession of the affiliated organisations of Bangladesh Nationalist Party near Rampura Bridge on Sunday while marching towards the Indian high commission in Dhaka, protesting against the recent anti-Bangladesh incidents in India. | Sony Ramani

Police stopped the joint procession of the affiliated organisations of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party near Rampura Bridge on Sunday as it was marching towards the Indian high commission in Dhaka from the party’s central office at Naya Paltan.

Several thousand leaders and activists of Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal, Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Juba Dal, and Swechchhasebak Dal started the march at about 11:30am in front of the party’s central office at Naya Paltan.

With this large procession, the countrywide protests against the attack on Bangladesh assistant high commission in India’s Agartala rolled into the seventh consecutive day on Sunday.

Huge traffic congestions were created due to the march and people suffered immensely as the blockade near Rampura Bridge created backlog till Malibagh in the south and Natun Bazar in the north.

Later, a six-member delegation from the three BNP associate bodies submitted a memorandum to the Indian high commission at about 1:05pm to register their protests against the recent anti-Bangladesh incidents in the neighbouring country.

The delegation consisted of Chhatra Dal president Rakibul Islam Rakib and general secretary Nasir Uddin Nasir, Juba Dal central president Monayem Munna, its general secretary Nurul Islam Nayan, Swechchhasebak Dal president SM Jilani and general secretary Rajib Ahsan.

The demands in the memorandum include a thorough investigation into the attack on the Bangladesh mission in Agartala and appropriate punitive measures against the perpetrators, to ensure safety and security of all Bangladesh diplomatic missions and personnel in India and stopping misinformation on Bangladesh by leveraging their media.

Members of Bangladesh Army, Bangladesh Navy, police and Coast Guard members were seen deployed in and around Indian high commission in Dhaka.

Law enforcers and security agency members block road at Bashtola area near Indian high commission and neither vehicle nor people were allowed on the road.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police Gulshan Division deputy commissioner Mohammad Tareq Mahmud told New Age that they had increased the security in and around Indian high commission considering the BNP’s march.

‘We have been taking special security measures centering Indian high commission since Tuesday and it will be continued until further notice,’ he said.

Earlier, addressing a short rally in front of the BNP’s central office before the march, BNP senior joint secretary general Ruhul Kabir Rizvi alleged that the Indian ruling party’s ploy to bring Sheikh Hasina back to Bangladesh was nothing but direct aggression.

‘You [Indian government] do not like the people of Bangladesh. You do not respect the sovereignty and independence of Bangladesh,’ he said.

Rizvi unequivocally said that 180 million people of Bangladesh were prepared to resist Delhi’s hegemony.

The Bangladesh mission in Agartala came under attack in the afternoon of December 2 by a group of Indians during their protests demanding the release of Hindu community leader in Bangladesh Chinmoy Krishna Das, now in jail in a sedition case.​

 

[Saif]

BNP’s associate bodies submit memorandum to Indian mission

BNP’s associate bodies submit memorandum to Indian mission

The memorandum was submitted protesting the attack on the Assistant High Commission of Bangladesh in Agartala

www.thedailystar.net

 

[Saif]

https://thefinancialexpress.com.bd/national/politics/bnp-adopts-anti-india-stance-as-efforts-to-mend-ties-fail

BNP adopts anti-India stance as efforts to mend ties ‘fail’
UNB
Published :
Dec 09, 2024 19:13
Updated :
Dec 09, 2024 19:13

After the fall of Sheikh Hasina's government, the BNP's attempts to improve ties with India apparently failed, prompting the party to adopt a stronger, openly anti-India stance, according to senior party leaders.

They said their party had to take this stance to retain its popularity, particularly in the face of widespread anti-Bangladesh propaganda and provocative statements from some Indian politicians and media outlets.

The BNP leaders said anti-Indian sentiment is growing in Bangladesh as Sheikh Hasina took shelter there escaping the country in the face of a mass uprising while the people believe that India is actively trying to create chaos in the country through various ways, including the use of the religion card.

“In such a situation, as the major and popular political party, the BNP cannot remain silent about what India is doing and the incidents happening there. If we stay silent, people will misunderstand us, and we may lose popularity as the Islamic party will take advantage of it. So, we’ve become vocal against India’s aggression,” said a BNP standing committee member, speaking on the condition of anonymity.

He said the attack on the Bangladesh mission in Agartala, the desecration of the national flag, anti-Bangladesh statements by Indian leaders, and the ongoing propaganda and misinformation spread by Indian media have sparked strong resentment both among the people and within the BNP.

“So, the anti-India position within the BNP has strengthened, prompting the party high command to instruct its three associate bodies to announce protest programmes against Indian aggression," the BNP policymaker said.

On Sunday, three BNP associate bodies -- Jatiyatabadi Jubo Dal, Swechchasebak Dal, and Chhatra Dal—staged a march towards the Indian High Commission and submitted a memorandum there to register their protest against the recent anti-Bangladesh incidents in the neighbouring country and demanding an end to misinformation about Bangladesh and ensuring the safety of Bangladeshi missions in India.

They will also stage a long march towards Agartala from Dhaka on Wednesday to protest against Indian aggression.

Another BNP standing committee member said their party took the initiative to improve ties with the Indian government and political parties after the ouster of the Awami League regime, but they have yet to receive any reciprocal response from India.

He said Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Pranay Verma, met with their party leaders, including Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on September 22, during which they outlined ways to bring positivity and strengthen the relationship between Indian political parties and the BNP as a political entity.

“We also tried to send a message to the Indian authorities to establish relations with the people of Bangladesh and the major political parties, urging them to move away from their exclusive ties with the Awami League. But we’re surprised that India has not budged even an inch from its position,” the BNP leader said.

He said they still want to maintain good relations with the Indian government, political parties and people. “Through our current stance, we mainly aim to exert pressure on India to reconsider its anti-Bangladesh position and exclusive ties with the Awami League. If they change their stance, we will reciprocate, as we believe that friendship with India is crucial for maintaining regional stability.”

The BNP leader said their party's acting chairman Tarique Rahman has been cautiously avoiding anti-Indian remarks as he is willing to mend ties with the neighbouring country and resolve past misunderstandings. “But now, it depends on India. If they don’t come forward, we will have to work out our strategy focusing on other regional partners, including China.”

He said although China supported the Sheikh Hasina government, it has already changed its position and is showing interest in warming ties with the BNP.

The BNP leader, however, said as a moderate democratic party, the BNP does not want to be either an anti-Indian or pro-Indian party. “BNP will remain open to fostering a friendly relationship with India through diplomatic efforts, while also being vocal against India’s negative activities.”

While exchanging views with local journalists in London on Saturday, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said a political party devises its strategy based on the prevailing circumstances and ground realities and the interests of the country.

He said BNP is now vocal against India because some political leaders in the neighbouring country and its media are unfairly spreading false propaganda against Bangladesh to destabilise the country and the interim government.

When asked about Bangladesh's foreign policy towards India if BNP forms the government, he replied, "Our policy with India will depend on our needs and interests. But we won’t tolerate any assault on our sovereignty… We won’t accept any interference in our internal affairs."

BNP standing committee member Gayeshwar Chandra Roy said India should try to understand the pulse of the Bangladeshi people and adjust its position accordingly.

He said India has already strained relations with Nepal, Bhutan, the Maldives, and Pakistan. “Now they are turning against Bangladesh. India must consider how they will move forward alone if they lose relations with all the countries in South Asia.”

BNP Standing Committee member Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku said India is interfering in the internal affairs of Bangladesh. “They’re still backing Sheikh Hasina. The Indian politicians' statements and their media reports are spreading a kind of hatred against Bangladesh. The people of Bangladesh are united against this hegemonic attitude of India.”​

 

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Pro-BNP orgs announce road march to Akhaura

Three BNP associate organisations -- Jubo Dal, Swechchhasebak Dal, and Chhatra Dal -- are set to stage a long march towards Akhaura from Dhaka tomorrow, protesting "Indian aggression"

www.thedailystar.net

Pro-BNP orgs announce road march to Akhaura
BNP concerned over India's ISKCON remarks

Three BNP associate organisations -- Jubo Dal, Swechchhasebak Dal, and Chhatra Dal -- are set to stage a long march towards Akhaura from Dhaka tomorrow, protesting "Indian aggression".

According to a press release, the march is scheduled to begin at 8:00am from the party headquarters in Nayapaltan.

Before the march, a brief rally will be held in front of the central office, where Jubo Dal President Monayem Munna will speak as the chief guest.

Swechchhasebak Dal President SM Zilani will address the gathering as the keynote speaker, while Chhatra Dal President Rakibul Islam Rakib will preside over the event.

The march will proceed through several points, with a scheduled roadside rally at Bhairab intersection. Leaders from the three organisations are expected to address participants.

Upon reaching Akhaura, a rally will be held. The leaders and activists are expected to walk around two kilometers before reaching the rally site in Akhaura.

Meanwhile, the march is being organised as a protest against the attack on the Assistant High Commission of Bangladesh in Agartala, desecration of the national flag in Kolkata, and an alleged conspiracy to incite communal unrest.​

 

[Saif]

Respect our sovereignty

Bangladesh-India relations should be based on state-to-state interactions rather than influenced by individuals or organisations, BNP leaders said yesterday.

www.thedailystar.net

Respect our sovereignty
BNP tells India

Bangladesh-India relations should be based on state-to-state interactions rather than influenced by individuals or organisations, BNP leaders said yesterday.

Speaking to reporters after paying homage at the grave of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman, BNP Standing Committee Member Gayeshwar Chandra Roy urged India to refrain from interfering in Bangladesh's internal affairs.

"No nation's interference is desirable to the people of an independent country. Bangladeshis will decide who is competent for which roles; there is no need for external advice. If needed, we can bring in consultants," he said.

Gayeshwar emphasised the importance of mutual respect, saying, "India is a neighbour, and if our friendship is rooted in equality and shared interests, both nations will benefit."

However, he accused India of exerting influence over Bangladesh's internal matters in the past, claiming, "For years, India dictated key appointments — from bank managing directors to judges and ministers."

He said bilateral ties should prioritise country-to-country relations over party or personal affiliations. "If India acknowledges this, a stronger friendship will follow," he added.

Meanwhile, in Rajshahi, BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi staged a symbolic protest by burning an Indian-made bedsheet during a "Boycott Indian Products" programme.

"This bedsheet from Jaipur symbolises the rejection of India's undue influence," he said.

Rizvi also accused India of spreading propaganda and undermining Bangladesh's communal harmony.

"If India claims Chattogram, we'll claim the Nawabi regime's entire Bangla, Bihar, and Odisha," he added.

"If our healthcare improves, no Bangladeshi will need to go to India for treatment," he said.​

 

[Saif]

Khaleda, Tarique invited to president's Victory Day reception

BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia and acting chairman Tarique Rahman have been invited to a reception hosted by the president on Victory Day..Major General Mohammad Adil Chowdhury, the president’s military secretary, delivered the invitation letters to the BNP chairperson's office this evening.

www.thedailystar.net

Khaleda, Tarique invited to president's Victory Day reception

Khaleda Zia, left, and Tarique Rahman

BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia and acting chairman Tarique Rahman have been invited to a reception hosted by the president on Victory Day.

Major General Mohammad Adil Chowdhury, the president's military secretary, delivered the invitation letters to the BNP chairperson's office this evening.

Photo: Collected

AZM Zahid Hossain, a member of the BNP standing committee, received the letters on behalf of Khaleda and Tarique.

Earlier, on November 21, Khaleda Zia attended a reception at Senakunja marking the Armed Forces Day.​