[🇧🇩] Monitoring the political activities of BNP

[Saif]

Reforms vs elections debate a fallacious argument: Tarique

Bangladesh Nationalist Party acting chairman Tarique Rahman on Wednesday dismissed the debate over which one among reforms and elections should precede, terming it a fallacious argument...

www.newagebd.net

Reforms vs elections debate a fallacious argument: Tarique
Staff Correspondent 02 January, 2025, 00:02

Tarique Rahman | AFP file photo

Bangladesh Nationalist Party acting chairman Tarique Rahman on Wednesday dismissed the debate over which one among reforms and elections should precede, terming it a fallacious argument.

He said that both the reforms and elections were essential to bring qualitative changes to the state and its politics.

‘Reform is an inevitable and continuous process to ensure the existing system remains relevant to the times. Elections, however, are the most crucial and effective means of sustaining and institutionalising democracy,’ Tarique Rahman said while virtually addressing the 46th anniversary of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal, the student wing of BNP, held at Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh auditorium in Dhaka city.

He said that elections provide people with the opportunity to exercise their right to vote, which ensures the distribution of political power between the state and its citizens.

The mafia government had fallen and fled due to the limitless sacrifice of thousands of students, he further said.

‘We must be cautious not to let any rigid decisions undermine the momentum or desire for a mass uprising,’ he warned.

Tarique said that without ensuring the political and economic empowerment of people, democracy, human rights and reforms cannot be sustainable.

If the interim government failed to determine its priorities in reform initiatives, conspirators could seize the opportunity to undermine the spirit of the July uprising, he warned.

Criticising the current government, Tarique also said that despite being in power for five months, the interim government had failed to dismantle the syndicates in the commodity market and bring essential goods within the reach of people.

‘If the daily plights of people are overlooked in the name of reforms, they will eventually be compelled to speak out,’ he said.

Saying that as a democratic norm, new political parties emerge out of a country’s necessity, Tarique said that his party welcomed all democratic initiatives.

People would decide through elections which party they would accept and which one they would reject, he observed.

BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir iterated the party’s demand for immediate elections after completing minimum election centric reforms.

‘We have ousted a fascist regime and established an interim government, but unfortunately, a new plot is now cast to keep the popular political party away from the people,’ he alleged.

The BNP secretary general warned that the people would not accept actions that undermined democracy on the pretext of reforms.

Addressing party leaders and activists, acting chairman Tarique emphasised the importance of rising above greed and self-interest, highlighting the vital role of students and youth in creating a safe and self-reliant Bangladesh for future generations.

He said that building a knowledge-based society and state was imperative to achieve an effective presence of Bangladesh on the international stage, while at the same time ensuring dignity for its people.​

 

[Saif]

Fakhrul calls for poll soon to beat current crisis

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said national election is very much crucial as soon as possible to overcome the present crisis. “Holding the elections as early as possible is the only solution to overcome the current crisis,” he said

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Fakhrul calls for poll soon to beat current crisis
BSS
Published :
Jan 01, 2025 21:53
Updated :
Jan 01, 2025 21:53

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said national election is very much crucial as soon as possible to overcome the present crisis.

“Holding the elections as early as possible is the only solution to overcome the current crisis,” he said while addressing a discussion in Dhaka city on Wednesday.

Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) organised the discussion marking its 46th founding anniversary at Engineers Institution in the city.

Acting Chairman of BNP Tarique Rahman addressed the discussion virtually from London as the chief guest while JCD President Rakibul Islam Rakib was in the chair.

Mirza Fakhrul Islam called for early election through completing the reforms which are necessary for holding a fair election.

Urging all to remain careful about the conspiracy against BNP, Mirza Fakhrul said there were many attempts in the past to split the party, but they could not succeed.

He ruled out the allegation that BNP is against the reform, saying “they have forgotten the history of BNP which has already launched campaign across the country with a 31-point reform agenda.”

Fakhrul Islm said BNP was born under a democratic reform process initiated by martyred President Ziaur Rahman introducing the multiparty democracy in the country.

“We believe that reform is an ongoing process. We cannot allow anything to happen in the name of reform that will disrupt our democracy,” he said​

 

[Saif]

Jamaat’s statement on patriotism ‘ridiculous’

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi yesterday made an oblique reference to a recent statement by Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami on patriotism and termed it “ridiculous.”

www.thedailystar.net

Jamaat’s statement on patriotism ‘ridiculous’
Says Rizvi

Photo: Courtesy of BNP

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi yesterday made an oblique reference to a recent statement by Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami on patriotism and termed it "ridiculous."

On December 23, speaking at an event in Rangpur, Jamaat Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman said there were only two tested patriotic forces in the country -- one is the army, the other is Jamaat-e-Islami.

Rizvi said the army is undoubtedly patriotic because of its vital role in the 1971 Liberation War and in the 2024 July uprising.

He then raised questions about the role of the "Islamist party" during the 1971 Liberation War.

"I want to ask the Islamist party about its role in 1971. In which sector did you fight, under which sector commander? Claiming to be the only patriotic party will make people laugh."

Rizvi made these remarks yesterday while speaking at an event at Humayun Rashid Chattar in Sylhet city.

He also criticised the government for not ensuring justice for BNP leaders and activists who were killed or disappeared.

He highlighted BNP's 15-and-a-half-year struggle for democracy, questioning the interim government's commitment to ensuring justice for victims of political repression.

Commenting on recent amendments to school textbooks, Rizvi praised the inclusion of chapters on leaders like Sher-e-Bangla AK Fazlul Haque, Maulana Bhashani, and Hossain Shaheed Suhrawardy but expressed disappointment over the exclusion of a dedicated chapter on the Liberation War.

"It is essential to have a complete history of our struggle for freedom," Rizvi said, urging the government to ensure that the Liberation War's legacy is properly documented in school books.​

 

[Saif]

BNP standing committee members to meet Khaleda tomorrow

Shayrul Kabir Khan, a member of the BNP Media Cell, confirmed to The Daily Star that the meeting is scheduled to be held at 8:00pm

www.thedailystar.net

BNP standing committee members to meet Khaleda tomorrow

BNP standing committee members are set to meet party's Chairperson Khaleda Zia tomorrow night at her Gulshan residence.

Shayrul Kabir Khan, a member of the BNP Media Cell, confirmed to The Daily Star that the meeting is scheduled to be held at 8:00pm.

Sources said senior leaders are visiting the former prime minister to enquire on her health.

The BNP standing committee has 15 members, and all are expected to attend the meeting, as per party insiders.

On Thursday night, Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman also met with the BNP chairperson.

In another development, BNP standing committee member Salahuddin Ahmed is expected to arrive in Dhaka tomorrow morning from London.

Shayrul confirmed that Salahuddin's flight is scheduled to land at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 11:30am.​

 

[Saif]

Mirza Fakhrul urges students to remain united

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir today called upon the people, especially students, to remain united taking the current political situation into consideration. “At this moment, everybody should remain united. Students should also be united and focus on their studies to come

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Mirza Fakhrul urges students to remain united
BSS
Published :
Jan 04, 2025 21:21
Updated :
Jan 04, 2025 21:21

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir today called upon the people, especially students, to remain united taking the current political situation into consideration.

“At this moment, everybody should remain united. Students should also be united and focus on their studies to come out successfully and become self-reliant,” he said.

Fakhrul Islam was addressing virtually a student rally organised by Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal Thakurgaon district unit marking the organisation’s 46th founding anniversary.

Thakurgaon District Chhatra Dal President Md. Kayes chaired the rally held at Thakurgaon public library ground.

Mirza Fakhrul, also a former teacher of economics, urged the students to always devote themselves to acquiring knowledge and work for the well-being of the country.

Noting that an opportunity has come before the nation after the fall of the fascist Awami League regime, Mirza Fakhrul said BNP will always want to make the country free from corruption and protect democracy, freedom of speech and freedom of the press.

The BNP secretary general said the former AL government destroyed the country's educational institutions, economy and electoral system. They killed and injured thousands of students to foil the anti-discrimination student movement, he said.

“Many conspiracies are still going on but we will not bow down to any conspiracy,” he said.

People of the country who joined the War of Liberation being imbued with the declaration of independence by the then Major Ziaur Rahman wanted to establish a discrimination-free state.

“But discrimination has gripped all areas, corruption is everywhere. Only if we can build a sovereign parliament through free and impartial elections, then the cherished goal will be possible to achieve,” he said.

Mirza Fakhrul said Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman ruled the country for a very short time. But in this short span of time he took many groundbreaking steps for development of the talented students and building a society without discrimination, he said.

“It is our misfortune that he did not get much time to implement his objectives,” he said.

Earlier, a colourful procession marking the founding anniversary was brought out.

The meeting was addressed among others by District BNP General Secretary Mirza Faisal Amin, Joint Secretary Poygam Ali, Municipal BNP President Shariful Islam Sharif, District BNP Vice-Presidents Freedom Fighter Abu Karim, Obaidullah Masud and Mahebullah Abu Nur.​

 

[Saif]

BNP to strengthen national unity against fascism

BNP senior leader Salahuddin Ahmed yesterday said their party's acting chairman has instructed them to make every possible effort to maintain national unity to resist the rise of fascist forces in the country.

www.thedailystar.net

BNP to strengthen national unity against fascism
Says Salahuddin

File photo

BNP senior leader Salahuddin Ahmed yesterday said their party's acting chairman has instructed them to make every possible effort to maintain national unity to resist the rise of fascist forces in the country.

He made the comments while speaking to reporters at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport after his return from London.

In response to a question about the message Tarique Rahman sent through him, Salahuddin said, "Our acting chairman has instructed us to make every effort to keep the nation united, as otherwise, we understand that fascist forces and their associates could be emboldened."

"I believe our ultimate challenge should be to foster the anti-fascist national and mass unity that has developed in Bangladesh as a political culture. Otherwise, fascism could rear its ugly head again," he said.

When asked about Tarique's possible return, he said they had not yet been able to create the necessary environment for his return. "It will take some more time, but he will definitely return home," he said.

The BNP leader said it may not take much time for the institutional, legal, and field-level reforms. "I call upon the interim government to give attention to completing the necessary reforms based on national consensus alongside taking election preparations so that we can proceed to the democratic process promptly."

Regarding the move by the leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, he said their party will welcome the emergence of any new political party in the current context of the country. "But it shouldn't be like the king's party with the support of the government. It would be better for them to come through a healthy political process."​

 

[Saif]

Khaleda asks party leaders to remain united for democracy

Bangladesh Nationalist Party chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia on Sunday instructed the standing committee members of the party to work together for people and for democracy.

www.newagebd.net

Khaleda asks party leaders to remain united for democracy
Staff Correspondent 06 January, 2025, 00:37

Khaleda Zia

Bangladesh Nationalist Party chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia on Sunday instructed the standing committee members of the party to work together for people and for democracy.

The standing committee members met with the party’s ailing chairperson and exchanged greetings with her on Sunday night.

The meeting was held at the party chairperson’s residence Firoza in Gulshan in the city.

‘The chairperson instructed us to work together, work for people and democracy,’ organisation secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir told reporters following the meeting.

He said that the meeting was held ahead of Khaleda Zia’s scheduled trip to London for medical treatment on Tuesday. No political discussions took place during the meeting, he added.

Fakhrul said that they prayed to Almighty for her swift recovery and for her continued leadership in the democratic movement.

Standing committee members Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain, Barrister Zamir Uddin Sarkar, Mirza Abbas, Gayeshwar Chandra Roy, Abdul Moyeen Khan, Nazrul Islam Khan, Salahuddin Ahmed, Selima Rahman, Hafiz Uddin Ahmed, Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury and Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku attended the meeting.

Before the meeting, Liberal Democratic Party chairman Oli Ahmad visited the BNP chairperson in the evening.​

 

[Saif]

Tarique Rahman will return home soon: Salahuddin

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed has said party’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman would return home soon following creating a conducive atmosphere. “We are yet to create a congenial atmosphere for his return. It will require some more days. H

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Tarique Rahman will return home soon: Salahuddin
BSS
Published :
Jan 06, 2025 16:53
Updated :
Jan 06, 2025 16:53

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed has said party’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman would return home soon following creating a conducive atmosphere.

“We are yet to create a congenial atmosphere for his return. It will require some more days. However, he will return within some days,” he said.

Salahuddin said this at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka on Sunday after returning from the United Kingdom upon completion of a two-week visit.

He urged the interim government to announce a ‘specific election roadmap,’ saying, “It is necessary to give the election on the basis of national unity for democratic transition.”

Replying to a question on the initiative of the leaders of the July Movement to form a new political party, Salahuddin said BNP welcomes the political platform.

“But those who will form a new political party must follow the fair rules of politics. The new political party should not enjoy the shelter and blessing from the government like a king’s party,” he said.

About the demand of the July revolutionaries to bury the 1972 constitution, Salahuddin said, “Constitution is the basic principles of a country, which cannot be buried but may be amended or ratified.”

Responding to another question about his discussion with Tarique Rahman, he said, you will know everything gradually.

“The acting chairman of BNP stressed the need for unity,” said Salahuddin, who went to London on December 20 last in response to the call of Tarique Rahman.​

 

[Saif]

July uprising proclamation: BNP wants recognition of their sacrifice in 16 yrs

All political parties support the government initiative to prepare the ‘proclamation of July uprising’ on the basis of a national consensus. However, there are doubts regarding the success of this initiative

en.prothomalo.com

July uprising proclamation: BNP wants recognition of their sacrifice in 16 yrs
Selim Zahid
Dhaka
Published: 02 Jan 2025, 09: 21

All political parties support the government initiative to prepare the “proclamation of July uprising” on the basis of a national consensus. However, there are doubts regarding the success of this initiative.

But the political parties think the tension in the political arena surrounding declaration of the “proclamation of the July uprising” by the students who led the mass uprising, has been quelled. A massive political debate over this has been avoided for the time being by this initiative of the interim government.

Now the question arises as to how the proclamation would be prepared and what would be included in it.

Already the frontline leaders of the July have declared scrapping the constitution adopted in 1972 and making the Awami League irrelevant to the country’s politics.

At the same time, the reliable leaders of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) said they would demand recognition of the sacrifices they made during the last 16 years under the Awami League rule. The BNP leadership thinks the government initiative is a timely one.

Speaking to Prothom Alo regarding this, BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said the proclamation should include everything, including the movements over the last 16 years, killings and enforced disappearances, imprisonments and torture on the opposition and the contribution of the political parties.

The proclamation should be based on a consensus among the parties which were involved in the anti-fascist movement, he insisted.

The BNP, however, has a different opinion regarding the “proclamation of the July uprising”. They do not consider the movement in July as a “revolution”. They consider it an “uprising”. So there could be a “declaration”, not a “proclamation” of the mass uprising, BNP leaders believe.

A “proclamation” is supposed to cancel the constitution. Then the constitution is suspended by a military decree or proclamation. Under that proclamation, the chief martial law administrator or the president can amend, change, modify, add and delete any section or part of the section. The constitution is no longer in effect after that. So is the constitutional obligation.

The BNP believes there was a mass uprising of students and people in July and August. Following that, an interim government was formed on the basis of a national consensus. This government was sworn in as per the constitution. So there is no scope to declare a “proclamation of the revolution” some five months after the oath.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has taken a cautious stance in this regard. Speaking to Prothom Alo last Monday, central Jamaat leader and secretary of the party’s publicity wing Matiur Rahman Akanda told Prothom Alo that they appreciated the initiative taken by the students from a perspective of freedom of speech.

However, the backdrop of this has been changed with the internal and external political interventions over the announcement of “proclamation of July revolution”.

The interim government has declared to prepare a “proclamation” of the uprising on the basis of a national consensus. The students, meanwhile, held a programme titled “March for Unity” at the central Shaheed Minar on 31 December.

The Jamaat leaders did not want to make any comment regarding this.

Speaking to Prothom Alo, Jamaat-e-Islami secretary general Mia Golam Parwar said, “The government hasn’t officially declared about preparing the proclamation. The students haven’t cleared their stance either. I don’t think it’s prudent to make any comment in this situation.”

Communist party of Bangladesh (CPB) general secretary Ruhin Hossain Prince wants to prioritise the ongoing crisis and election rather than the proclamation.

He said, “I don’t understand what to be achieved from an initiative that hasn’t been taken by the government in the last five months. I don’t see any realistic implementation of this either. Rather, the government should discuss reform issues with the political parties and give a roadmap of the election without any further delay.”

In an official press conference on 29 December last year, the Anti-discrimination Students Movement said they would declare the “proclamation of the July revolution” on 31 December 2024 in presence of political leaders and advisers of the government.

The initiative sparked sharp reactions from the political parties, some in favour and some against it. Later, in the last moment, chief adviser’s press secretary Shafiqul Alam told at an emergency press briefing that the interim government had taken an initiative to prepare a proclamation of the July mass uprising on the basis of national consensus.

The proclamation will be announced to consolidate people’s unity, anti-fascist spirit and desire for state reform, which were driven by the uprising in last July and August that ousted the government of Bangladesh Awami League.

Later, the students discarded their previously announced programmes and declared the programme “march for unity” at the same venue on the same date.

Although delayed, AB (Amar Bangladesh) party member secretary Mujibur Rahman took this government initiative positively.

Speaking to Prothom Alo, he said the chief adviser held three meetings with the political parties so far. All of these were held as the government needed it. Apart from that, there has been no initiative from the government to unite the students, who led the July uprising and the political parties.

He further stated that the government did not take any initiative until the students took an extreme stance. From that point of view, it is a good initiative.

Islami Andolon Bangladesh senior joint secretary Gazi Ataur Rahman reiterated Mujibur Rahman saying, “The students had said the proclamation would be a part of the constitution. But a national consensus is needed for that. It would create controversy had the students declared the proclamation on their own.”

“Probably, the government realised the reality. It would be better if the government prepared this. We will be saved from the controversy,” he maintained.

Speaking regarding this, Jatiya Nagorik Committee member secretary Akhter Hossain told the newsperson that the proclamation would be the official evidence of the mass uprising.

According to him, it will explain everything as to how a quota reform movement turned into a mass uprising and why people sacrificed their lives.

But, regardless of the content of the proclamation it stirred several questions among the political parties. In particular, many have opposed the idea of suspending the constitution of 1972 and “bury” it forever.

A top CPB leader raised concerns over this. Referring to some recent statements from the student leaders, he said the common people and members of the political parties took part in the mass uprising along with the students. Now the students are trying to claim it to be their own. They are also questioning the liberation war which is raising many questions.

Despite the controversy surrounding the “proclamation of July uprising”, most parties think the mass uprising was an outcome of unprecedented unity among the people of the country. Therefore, there should be an official documentation of the uprising. And, the political parties should not take it lightly.

Some believe that the students will take the entire credit for the proclamation. The students may form a political party. From that assumption, many are considering them as opponents.

However, no political party should show any narrow minded attitude over the unprecedented uprising in 2024, said Islami Andolon leader Gazi Ataur Rahman.

An AB Party leader maintained, “For instance, who would be among the accused for setting fire at the BTV office. The political parties should reach an agreement on issues like this and a declaration should be made that no case will be filed over this. It was a part of the movement.”

Ganosamhati Andolan key coordinator Zonayed Saki thinks there should be a “proclamation of July uprising”.

He said, “That should be done following a proper democratic process on the basis of a national consensus.”

* This report appeared on the print and online versions of Prothom Alo and has been rewritten in English by Ashish Basu​

 

[Saif]

Tarique thanks Qatar emir for providing air ambulance to Khaleda

He said he was looking forward to fostering lasting, multifaceted ties between Bangladesh and Qatar

www.thedailystar.net

Tarique thanks Qatar emir for providing air ambulance to Khaleda

Tarique Rahman, left, and Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani

BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman today expressed his gratitude to the emir of Qatar for providing the air ambulance that ferried Chairperson Khaleda Zia from Dhaka to London on January 7.

"I am deeply grateful to His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar, for graciously providing transportation and logistics for my mother, former prime minister of Bangladesh, Begum Khaleda Zia," he wrote in a Facebook post.

"On behalf of my family and the people of Bangladesh, I extend our heartfelt thanks for this support."

He said he was looking forward to fostering lasting, multifaceted ties between Bangladesh and Qatar.

Khaleda, 79, is visiting London for advanced medical treatment.

After initial treatment, she may travel to the Johns Hopkins University Hospital in Maryland, USA, for further medical care, according to party insiders.​

 

[Saif]

‘Minus-two’ won’t be successful

BNP standing committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury yesterday said the hope for implementing a fabricated notion of minus-two formula or depoliticisation will not be fulfilled as BNP is now the most popular political party in the country.

www.thedailystar.net

‘Minus-two’ won’t be successful
Says Khasru

BNP standing committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury yesterday said the hope for implementing a fabricated notion of minus-two formula or depoliticisation will not be fulfilled as BNP is now the most popular political party in the country.

"That expectation [minus-two] will not be fulfilled...," he said, replying to a question from reporters after paying tribute at the grave of Ziaur Rahman.

Khasru also said, "Democracy must be established in Bangladesh. The first task for that (to restore democracy) is (to arrange) election... election is the first reform (initiative). The movement for reforms and the restoration of democracy must begin with this (election)," he said.

Meanwhile, BNP senior leader Nazrul Islam Khan yesterday said they were hurt by the comments of the Jamaat-e-Islami chief, who claimed that the army and his party are the only tested patriotic forces in Bangladesh.

Talking to reporters at the BNP chairperson's Gulshan office after a meeting with a delegation of Jatiyatabadi Samamona Jote, he, however, expressed hope that Jamaat would join the movement for the restoration of democracy alongside other democratic parties in the future.

Asked whether BNP would hold any meeting with Jamaat, he said their party was not formally engaged in a simultaneous movement with Jamaat.​

 

[Saif]

BNP dismisses claims of desperation for elections, calls for nat'l unity

Fakhrul also highlights the importance of patience in rebuilding the nation

www.thedailystar.net

BNP dismisses claims of desperation for elections, calls for nat'l unity

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir today refuted claims that the BNP is desperate for national elections, labeling the allegation as "false" and accusing certain factions of attempting to create divisions in national unity.

Speaking at the AB Party's council at Suhrawardy Udyan, Fakhrul emphasised the BNP's commitment to reforms and national cohesion.

"We have already spoken about reforms. Once again, we say we want reforms. Some people are trying to create a false narrative that we [BNP] want elections before reform, and we are desperate for elections, but that is not true. We want elections quickly because elections will strengthen us," he said.

"A functioning government and parliament will make us stronger and resolve the ongoing crises," Fakhrul said, adding that a unified national government would help address the country's challenges collaboratively.

"We want to solve the country's problems together. Those who belong to other parties or political parties, think about this and share their opinions," he added.

"We want to return to a democratic system, eliminate inequality, and build a new Bangladesh with the youth. Unfortunately, some individuals are trying to rift in unity, but I am confident their efforts will not succeed," Fakhrul said.

Calling for collective efforts, he said, "Together, with unity, we can achieve our desired goals."

Fakhrul also highlighted the importance of patience in rebuilding the nation.

"Let us not destroy the dream of building a new country through hasty decisions, wrong steps, or mistakes. We all must remain vigilant," he said.

Commenting on the current situation, he said, "The country's economic condition is dire, and the political situation is fragile. We need to address these challenges collectively. If we could remove fascists together, why can't we overcome this crisis now?"

"We have supported an interim government and will continue to do so. It is possible for the current government to find a way forward, a path that we can all walk together," Fakhrul said, reiterating BNP's support for an interim government.​

 

[Saif]

কিছু মানুষ ঐক্যে ফাটল ধরানোর চেষ্টা করছে: মির্জা ফখরুল

 

[Saif]

Tarique invited to National Prayer Breakfast by Trump

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, along with two other party leaders, has been invited to the upcoming US National Prayer Breakfast. The other two invitees are BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, a member of the Chairperson's Foreign Affairs Advisor

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Tarique invited to National Prayer Breakfast by Trump
FE ONLINE DESK
Published :
Jan 11, 2025 18:08
Updated :
Jan 11, 2025 19:07

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, along with two other party leaders, has been invited to the upcoming US National Prayer Breakfast. The other two invitees are BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, a member of the Chairperson's Foreign Affairs Advisory Committee.

The invitation was sent by US President-elect Donald Trump to Mirza Fakhrul on Friday (January 10).

The National Prayer Breakfast will be held in Washington, DC on February 5-6 next.​

 

[Saif]

BNP won’t form govt alone: Khasru

BNP will not form a unilateral government even if the party wins 200 seats in the next parliamentary election, said BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury yesterday.

www.thedailystar.net

BNP won’t form govt alone: Khasru

BNP senior leader Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury. File photo

BNP will not form a unilateral government even if the party wins 200 seats in the next parliamentary election, said BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury yesterday.

"The 31-point proposal was formulated collectively by 42 parties, including the BNP. Even if the BNP wins 200 seats, it will not form a government alone, as implementing the 31 points must be achieved through a national government," he said.

He made these remarks while addressing a discussion as chief guest on the 31-point state reform proposal held in the capital's Banani.

Khasru said the BNP and 42 other parties jointly carried out the movement that toppled the Awami League-led government.

The BNP leader acknowledged that students played the biggest role in the movement. However, the contributions of other stakeholders should not be underestimated, he added.

He warned against divisions over taking credit for the movement and urged everyone to remain united to secure people's rights in the future.

The BNP leader said, "We have been working to fix the state structures for several years. Bangladesh will not become a communal country."

"Ziaur Rahman emphasised merit-based politics, and the BNP continues to follow that path. However, the participation of the youth [in politics] will be the most critical aspect of Bangladesh's future," he said.

Around 250 students from private universities across Dhaka and other parts of the country attended the discussion.​

 

[Saif]

Fakhrul discusses bilateral issues with Chinese ambassador

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Monday had a meeting with Chinese Ambassador to Dhaka Yao Wen and discussed various issues relating to the bilateral interests of the two nations. The hour-long meeting, which began around 11am, took place at the Chinese Ambassador’s Barid

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Fakhrul discusses bilateral issues with Chinese ambassador
UNB
Published :
Jan 13, 2025 19:21
Updated :
Jan 13, 2025 19:21

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Monday had a meeting with Chinese Ambassador to Dhaka Yao Wen and discussed various issues relating to the bilateral interests of the two nations.

The hour-long meeting, which began around 11am, took place at the Chinese Ambassador’s Baridhara residence, said a BNP leader close to Fakhrul.

The Chinese Embassy in Bangladesh, in a post on its verified Facebook page, said the Ambassador of China to Bangladesh met the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Secretary General.

It also said the two sides exchanged views on issues of mutual concern.

Earlier, on 21 August last year, the Chinese Ambassador met a BNP delegation led by Mirza Fakhrul at the BNP Chairperson’s Gulshan office, reaffirming China’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh and its people, as it has in the past.

He also assured that China would enhance its investment in Bangladesh in the coming days to support the country’s development and the welfare of its people.​

 

[Saif]

Refrain from wrongdoing, Tarique tells BNP men

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has urged the party leaders and activists to refrain from wrongdoing, reminding them that people may once again show their strength as they did on August 5 if they make mistakes

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Refrain from wrongdoing, Tarique tells BNP men

File photo

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has urged the party leaders and activists to refrain from wrongdoing, reminding them that people may once again show their strength as they did on August 5 if they make mistakes.

Speaking virtually at a discussion today, he also said the accountability of the government must be ensured through timely elections at every level, from parliament to union parishads, in order to alleviate public suffering and reflect the people's will and desire in governance.

"I humbly request all the soldiers of Ziaur Rahman and Khaleda Zia all over Bangladesh with folded hands, please do not allow intruders to crowd around you...please do not get misguided and refrain from confusing activities," the BNP leader said.

BNP organised the discussion at the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh, marking the 89th birth anniversary of its founder and former President Ziaur Rahman.

Tarique said over 60 lakh people were repressed, with many others killed, including around 500 during the July mass uprising, under the fascist rule of Sheikh Hasina. "Had we endured the repression and persecution to facilitate the intruders and wrongdoers?" he questioned.

He also said many people believe BNP has the highest potential to form the government if a free and fair election is held in the country.

Tarique questioned the party leaders and workers if a situation emerges due to wrongdoings by intruders or misguided BNP followers, where someone else forms the government, whether they would be able to stay well. "We don't know who or what may come (to power)...but it won't be good for all of us."

He also said if anyone else forms the government for any reason, every political activist belonging to BNP should have the minimum sense to recognise that it would not be good for the country and the nation, both from a local and international perspective. "So, we still have time on our hands to stand by the people and behave according to their desires."

At the end of the day, as a political party or activists, Tarique said BNP leaders have to go to the voters. "If any of us indulge in wrongdoing before that day (voting day), you will have to answer to the people when you go to them for their votes."

The BNP leader reminded his party colleagues of a very clear and recent example of how, when people get angry, they can force autocrats to flee the country.

"That example, just a few days ago, still shines before our eyes... If we ultimately need public support, why shouldn't we try to earn it through good actions? Why should you turn a blind eye to unfairness? If the people turn away their faces, we will have no place to go, no matter what we think of ourselves," he warned.

Without mentioning names, Tarique said some political forces are trying to raise their voices against BNP due to the wrongdoings of intruders and some misguided party activists. "So, I am saying it again and again that we must be alert and careful."

He reiterated that the next election will not be as easy as BNP leaders and activists might think, with complacency over their party's strength.

"We have our party's organisation even at the village level. But people matter and people are our strength and support. People showed on August 5 what happens if they are not with you. So, if we make any mistake, the people will show something again, and then you will have to face the consequences," the BNP leader said.

He called upon the BNP leaders and workers to stand by the people and work according to their desires. "Those who engage in any work that can affect us and our party; we will put up a resistance and register our protest against them."

The BNP leader called upon the party rank and file to remain united and stand against unfairness and resist it. "We must stand with the people in such a way that they understand we are with them, according to their desires. This should be our oath on this day, the 89th birth anniversary of Ziaur Rahman."​

 

[Saif]

Former state minister Babar taken to hospital with chest pain

Lutfozzaman Babar, former state minister for home affairs under the BNP-Jamaat alliance government, was taken to a hospital tonight with chest pain

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Former state minister Babar taken to hospital with chest pain

Photo from BNP Facebook

Lutfozzaman Babar, former state minister for home affairs under the BNP-Jamaat alliance government, was taken to a hospital tonight with chest pain, said a hospital source.

Babar arrived at the United Hospital around 10:00pm, said a duty manager of the hospital in the Gulshan area.

On January 16, Babar walked out of Dhaka Central Jail in Keraniganj after spending 17 years in prison.

He was welcomed with flowers and garlands by family members and supporters who had gathered outside the jail.

Earlier, Babar was acquitted of the life sentence in the high-profile 10-truck arms smuggling case in Chattogram.​

 

[Saif]

Tarique stresses BNP’s reorganisation to rebuild nation

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has laid emphasis on reorganisng the party with talented, diligent, honest and productive people to rebuild the country as it has been battered with the autocratic rule. “We strongly believe that we will get the people’s support (to form government) I

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Tarique stresses BNP’s reorganisation to rebuild nation
UNB
Published :
Jan 20, 2025 20:21
Updated :
Jan 20, 2025 22:18

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has laid emphasis on reorganisng the party with talented, diligent, honest and productive people to rebuild the country as it has been battered with the autocratic rule.

“We strongly believe that we will get the people’s support (to form government) InshaAllah. After that, we must rebuild our country. If we do not reorganise the party properly, we will not be able to rebuild the country,” he said while virtually addressing the BNP’s primary membership renewal programme on Monday.

Tarique formally launched the programme by submitting his party membership renewal form online during an event at the BNP Chairperson’s Gulshan office.

He also paid 20 taka (equivalent to 15 pence in British currency) as his subscription for membership renewal.

The BNP leader said their party has already presented a 31-point proposal for overhauling and rebuilding the state before the nation.

“To implement it, we must unite and reorganise our party by bringing those talented individuals to the forefront. We need to unite those who are hardworking, have integrity and ideals, and involve them in the party,” he said.

Tarique also said, “We need good, effective, and productive people in the coming days, as the runaway autocrat has set this country far back and destroyed all sectors. To rebuild the country, we need such people, and we must bring them forward.”

He called upon party leaders to ensure the success of the BNP’s membership renewal programme by organising and uniting all party workers across the country. “We want to reach the grassroots. If we can organise them better, we will strengthen the party even more.”

He also urged the BNP rank and file to put their best efforts into overhauling the party, just as they had shown patriotism and strong resolve in their struggle to free the country from autocracy, braving all forms of repression.

“The more we can reorganise, strengthen and unite the party, the quicker we can repair and restructure the country in line with our 31-point outline. Let’s begin our work today,” Tarique said.

He said it was a joyous day for all BNP leaders and workers, as they were renewing their membership with the party, which they had stood by despite enduring immense repression and suppression.

“I believe a storm swept across the country (during the Awami League rule), battering every sector. Political parties faced repressive acts such as enforced disappearances and killings. Hundreds of our leaders and workers were subjected to killings and enforced disappearances,” he said.

Tarique said leaders and workers from other parties were also made to disappear, killed, maimed, and oppressed in similar ways as BNP members. “Just as all sectors of the country were destroyed and the people suppressed, so too were the political parties repressed.”

“That storm is over. After any natural storm, people repair and reorganise their battered crop fields and homes. We’ve lost many of our colleagues in that storm, in various ways. Some we lost due to political reasons, others due to natural causes, and some moved away from politics for different reasons. That’s why we will reorganise our party once again,” he observed.

Addressing the programme, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said training for BNP leaders and workers is essential, as it appears they are drifting away from politics.

“Yesterday (Sunday) we marked the birth anniversary of our founder, the martyred President Ziaur Rahman. Our workers there shouted slogans in the name of different leaders from Dhaka South and North. This is not politics. It cannot be politics,” he said.

The BNP leader said such slogans should not come from the mouth of a political worker, as they reflect political bankruptcy. “We must now make political training compulsory in every upazila and district. This must be done with urgency.”

He also said the party must take steps to transform itself into an ideal political organisation.

“We will not be able to engage in politics merely by raising slogans. We must now focus on merit-based politics. We cannot win future battles simply by chanting slogans if we lack intellect and prudence,” Fakhrul observed.

He also urged party leaders and workers to recruit meritorious and intelligent individuals during the new member recruitment drive to further strengthen the country.

Earlier, Mirza Fakhrul, party standing committee members Nazrul Islam Khan, Salahuddin Ahmed, senior joint general secretary Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, and treasurer M Rashiduzzaman Millat also filled their forms and renewed their memberships.

Following the Sixth National Council, BNP’s last primary membership renewal programme was held in 2017 under the leadership of party chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia.​

 

[Saif]

BNP does not need to learn about reforms from anyone: Amir Khasru

The economy of Bangladesh has come to this position today because of BNP's reforms, says Khasru

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BNP does not need to learn about reforms from anyone: Amir Khasru

BNP standing committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury today said BNP does not need to learn from anyone about reforms as it is nothing new for the party.

Khasru made the remarks at a discussion meeting in Jashore this afternoon.

Jashore Chamber of Commerce and Industry organised this discussion meeting titled "Political Commitment to Restore the Economy of Khulna Division" at a hotel in Jashore town.

BNP has implemented 90 percent of the reforms since Bangladesh became independent, he said, adding that reforms may be something new for many parties but it is nothing new for the BNP.

Bangladesh has come here today through reforms at every step.

"We have built a strong economy; if that had continued, Bangladesh would have become a developing country long ago," he said.

But in the past, due to looting, Bangladesh's economy has been set back, he added.

The economy of Bangladesh has come to this position today because of BNP's reforms, Khasru said.

Seeking the roll back of VAT and taxes on essential items, he said that the new VAT and customs duties will further increase the pressure on the common people.

"People are fed up with the prices of daily necessities. Many have found it difficult to lead their daily lives due to inflation," he added.

Various representatives of the business sector in 10 districts of the Khulna Division participated in the meeting.​