BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has emphasised the need for safeguarding citizens' freedom of expression and voting rights, asserting that such measures are essential to prevent the emergence of autocrats in Bangladesh. "People’s rights to vote must be ensured at any cost. Secondly, people should have the right to speak or express their opinions. These two cannot be obstructed. If we all, irrespective of party and opinion, can agree on this, then we will gradually be able to develop a system free from autocracy," he said at a discussion on Saturday. The Ziaur Rahman Foundation (ZRF) organised the programme titled “Martyred President Ziaur Rahman: Whose Story is Our Philosophy” at the Shaheed Abu Sayed International Convention Center, marking the 89th birth anniversary of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman. When asked by a participant what should be done to keep the democratic system intact, Tarique responded, “As a political activist, what I understand by democracy is the exercise of the right to express one’s opinion. What is acceptable in a democratic system worldwide is that people express their opinion through voting.” He said there are various political parties in Bangladesh, and it is natural for them to have different ideologies and opinions. "But we all must agree that people’s right to speak must be protected. At the same time, the normal process of elections—which means people’s right to vote—must be established." The BNP leader also said these two principles must be practised in Bangladesh for at least 20-25 years to prevent undermining the democratic process in the name of democracy. "If we can ensure this, then we will be freed from autocracy.” In response to the same question, BNP Standing Committee member Nazrul Islam Khan said it is essential to truly exercise democracy and create a united resistance against any attempt to destroy democracy, as this is the key to preserving democracy in Bangladesh. Khaleda, Tarique acquitted in Zia Orphanage graft case He said BNP founder Ziaur Rahman introduced multi-party democracy, which was later destroyed in 1982 by military ruler HM Ershad. "The more we trust democracy, the more we become aware and active in protecting it, and the more proactive we are in opposing those who oppose democracy, the safer democracy will remain," the BNP leader said. Nazrul also said no one in Bangladesh will dare to annihilate democracy again if those who believe in the democratic system unite in its favour. Tarique recalled Ziaur Rahman’s contributions to the nation, particularly in building the country and establishing multi-party democracy. He said Ziaur Rahman had played a key role in the development of the Ready-Made Garment (RMG) sector and the labour market abroad, which are now major sources of foreign currency for the country. Describing Ziaur Rahman as a statesman, Tarique said, "Almost in every sector, Ziaur Rahman was successful." He said Zia had left behind numerous examples to follow in order to move the country forward. ZRF Vice President and physician Dr Zubaida Rahman recalled her meetings with Ziaur Rahman at various Notun Kuri programmes. She also recited a poem dedicated to the memory of Ziaur Rahman, her late father-in-law.

The BNP will celebrate the 89th birth anniversary of its founder and former President Ziaur Rahman on Sunday with due respect. Born on January 19, 1936 at Bagbari in Bogura, Ziaur Rahman, founded BNP in 1978 and became the country’s seventh president. Zia was assassinated by a group of army officers at Chattogram Circuit House on May 30, 1981. BNP on Thursday announced a day-long programme to observe the 89th birth anniversary of its founder. As part of the programmes, the party flags will be hoisted atop its offices, including Nayapaltan headquarters, Sunday morning. Besides, the party leaders and activists, led by its standing committee members, will place wreaths at Zia's grave at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar at 11am. Zia's birth anniversary: BNP chalks out elaborate programmes BNP will also arrange a discussion at the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh in the afternoon in memory of Zia. BNP’s associate bodies will also mark the day with various programmes, including discussions and warm clothes distribution, as part of the birth anniversary programmes. The party’s city, district and upazila units will also observe the day with different programmes. Meanwhile, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir issued a message on the occasion paying deep homage to Zia. He recalled the BNP founder’s contributions to the Liberation War, country’s development and restoration of ‘multiparty democracy’. The BNP leader also prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul of Zia.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has promised that their party will remain cautious not to nominate any loan defaulter in the upcoming national election. "We’re committed to people that we’ll surely try to ensure that defaulters do not get nominations. We’ll be very careful in this regard," he said during a symposium titled "White Paper and Thereafter: Economic Management, Reforms and National Budget" at the Bangabandhu International Conference Centre (BICC) in the capital on Saturday. Fakhrul made the remark in response to a question from noted economist Prof Rehman Sobhan, who asked whether the BNP would support the proposition that loan defaulters should be barred from contesting elections to curb the influence of money and muscle power. He said their party is working on a future course of action to move the country forward, taking lessons from past experiences. The BNP leader, however, acknowledged that it may not be possible to change everything overnight. Announce election date to uphold dignity of 2nd independence: BNP leader to CA He stressed the need for properly rebuilding the country’s institutions. “Our democratic institutions were destroyed over the past 15 years during the Awami League government. We believe in institutional settlement. What we need most now is to fix the institutions. Enough is enough. Let’s truly build Bangladesh as per our dreams and the desires of the people.” In reply to a question about whether their party wants the fascist political party Awami League to participate in the election, Fakhrul said it is the people of the country who will decide on this matter. “As a political party, we’re not willing to make a decision on it.” Asked why BNP is insisting on an interim government to hold the national election promptly, Fakhrul said they believe only an elected government can properly resolve the country’s problems. “Since the elected government comes to power with the public mandate, they have the authority to address the people’s issues.” He said the interim government should arrange the election as soon as possible to establish an elected government as such an administration can implement all types of reforms through discussions in parliament. BNP shifts focus, demands mid-year national election amid evolving situation Fakhrul said BNP presented a comprehensive 31-point political and economic reform outline two years ago. He said BNP prioritises political reforms, including limiting the Prime Minister to two terms, establishing a bicameral parliament, and ensuring that those who do not contest elections can still participate in governance. Fakhrul reiterated BNP’s proposal for the formation of a national government after the election as the party wants to eliminate inequalities and take the country forward based on national unity. In response to a question about whether BNP will be able to implement reforms if it comes to power, Fakhrul said it is incorrect to say that BNP will not be able to do so since the party committed to carrying out reforms as per their 31-point proposal. He said many people hope an interim government will resolve all issues within six months, but he described this as unrealistic. “That is why we are focusing more on the election. Democracy was not practiced in our previous parliaments. Let’s try and see if we can,” the BNP said. BNP urges interim govt to hold national election by Aug When asked about the Rohingya issue, Fakhrul said the Awami League had not taken proper steps to resolve the crisis, including holding talks with China and India, as it was not a priority for them. He said if BNP returns to power, they will make their best efforts to find a suitable solution to the Rohingya crisis, just as they did in the past.

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman has said that the war against extortion and encroachment will continue until justice is established in the country. The Jamaat leader made the remarks while speaking at the workers' conference organised by the district and metropolitan Jamaat at the historic Madrasa Maidan in Rajshahi on Saturday. He also highlighted the sacrifices made by many people in the country’s history, particularly those who laid down their lives in the fight against misrule and corruption. Won't stop until misrule-free Bangladesh is established: Jamaat Ameer "Why did our children give so much blood? Because they wanted to bury all kinds of misrule and corruption in this society," Dr Rahman said. He also honoured the sacrifices made by the martyrs, acknowledging the debt owed to them.  "We are indebted and grateful to those who gave their blood for today's environment. We will have to repay this debt for the rest of our lives.” “Many bodies had been made disappeared during the last days of the July-August uprising, with piles of bodies thrown onto trucks, set on fire. We will never be able to repay their debts," he added, referring to the brutalities of the past. Regarding the number of martyrs from his party, he said, "We are the party of those who have been martyred. They are national assets, and we want to keep them above our heads. No conspiracy will succeed against this nation if we have such brave people."

The BNP on Saturday demanded the government withdraw its “imprudent” decision of imposing Value Added Tax (VAT) and supplementary duties on more than a hundred products, considering public suffering. “We call for immediate withdrawal of the irresponsible decision of imposing taxes and VAT or indirect taxes on the common people,” said BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir. He made the demand at a press conference at the BNP Chairperson’s Gulshan office. Fakhrul said the VAT and indirect taxes imposed by the interim government will further increase the suffering of people. Amidst the ongoing economic instability and high inflation, he said, the interim government imposed VAT and supplementary duties on more than 100 products and withdrew tax exemptions on certain items, including daily necessities such as food, clothing, medicines and mobile internet services. VAT on hotels, restaurants to be revised to previous level: NBR “This decision will have a negative economic impact on the daily lives of the common people, particularly the poor and middle class,” the BNP leader said. Fakhrul said BNP is concerned about the impact of such a decision by the interim government on the lives of ordinary people. He urged the government to adopt alternative measures and reduce unnecessary development expenditures instead of imposing VAT and supplementary duties on essential items. The BNP leader said the interim government should also take steps for holding the national election to establish an accountable administration. Fakhrul said the government has increased VAT to cover the first phase of the current fiscal year's budget deficit of Tk 42,000 crore, as well as the potential subsequent deficit, and to meet the Tax-GDP Ratio condition for the IMF loan, since they are unable to meet budget expenses with the current revenue. Debapriya slams 'inconsiderate' VAT hike by interim govt In November 2024, he said the interim government printed a new Tk 22,500 crore and released it into the market to address the liquidity crisis of certain banks, which had been looted during the Awami League regime.   “Although this government had said at the beginning of its term that money would not be printed under any circumstances in the country's economy, like the Awami League government, it has taken the extremely harmful step of printing taka, which has further exacerbated the country's high inflation and increased the people's suffering," the BNP leader said. Considering the current economic situation, Fakhrul said the interim government's decision to impose new taxes will push the current inflation rate of around 13% even higher. "Rising inflation will erode household savings and lead to increased bank withdrawals," he warned. Besides, he said, the current downward trend in economic growth, which stands at 5.82%, will continue to decline, leading to a decrease in employment and an increase in the number of unemployed. Fakhrul also warned that the cost of fuel will rise further due to high prices, compliance pressure on small businesses will intensify and business expenses and production costs in factories will increase. LPG price slightly hiked after VAT structure change As a result, he said, the purchasing power of consumers will decrease and the livelihood of the lower-income people will become even more unbearable. The BNP leader said investment in businesses will decline, export competitiveness will weaken, and ultimately, the economy and the people of the country will suffer severe consequences. Fakhrul suggested that the government can resolve ongoing financial problems by cutting public spending and reorganising the economic management of the current budget, without increasing direct taxes. In the current situation, he said, the government should first focus on reducing costs. By reconsidering the development budget and cutting unnecessary or financially unfeasible projects, the BNP leader said the government can save up to 20% of its expenses, potentially saving around 60,000 crore taka. The BNP leader also suggested that cutting costs in local government budgets and subsidies can reduce operational costs by 10%, saving at least Tk 50,000 crore. Besides, he recommended reducing loan budgets for autonomous institutions as a means to temporarily cut costs. AB Party calls for VAT to be phased out and impose singular direct tax Fakhrul said the government can save at least 1 lakh crore taka from the budget by cutting expenditures, which will reduce the fiscal deficit, contribute to economic stability, and promote long-term development, ultimately alleviating the tax burden on the public. He slammed the government for its failure to control inflation, which rose by 11% despite an 8% increase in income. The BNP leader slammed the lack of coordinated action in monetary, fiscal, and market management to control inflation. He said neighbouring countries effectively managed inflation, while Bangladesh's conflicting policies, such as raising interest rates and taxes, worsened the situation. The BNP leader also pointed out inefficiencies between government ministries, which have led to increased adversity for the people. Fakhrul also suggested that a significant amount of money can be saved by halting funding for unnecessary and corruption-riddled mega projects. BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury said the government should first focus on addressing an interim budget, excluding the budget of plundering the Awami League. "In the current context, it is a very difficult task to implement a budget designed for looting.” He called upon the government to move forward with an interim budget that reflects the country's economic reality.

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Friday accused Tulip Siddiq, former British Treasury Minister, of engaging in corruption despite her upbringing and education in the UK, attributing it to her familial ties with Bangladesh’s Sheikh Family. “Tulip Siddiq grew up in London and studied there. It's unimaginable that an MP from England would engage in corruption, but her genes belong to Bangladesh's Sheikh family,” he told a discussion. Even after studying the UK and becoming an MP, the BNP leader said Tulip could not cross the genetic line of her family. “That’s why the evidence of corruption against her is now coming to light,” Rizvi said. Announce election date to uphold dignity of 2nd independence: BNP leader to CA The Agriculturists' Association of Bangladesh organised the programme at the Krishibid Institution Bangladesh (KIB) to mark the 45th martyrdom anniversary of ATM Khaled, the founding convener of the Bangladesh Agricultural University unit of Chhatra Dal. Earlier, on January 14, Tulip Siddiq resigned from her post as British Treasury Minister following public scrutiny, after UK media revealed that she and her sister had received a free flat from associates of her aunt, the deposed Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. There were also allegations that Tulip helped her family misappropriated up to £3.9 billion from the Russia-backed Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant Project. Rizvi further alleged that Sheikh Hasina, her son Sajeeb Wazed Joy, and her niece Tulip embezzled a large sum of money by securing a deal with Russia for the Rooppur nuclear project. He said many media outlets clearly reported that the money embezzled by members of the Sheikh family, including Tulip, as bribes, was withdrawn from a Malaysian bank. Stay alert against rift over ‘July Declaration’: Salahuddin to govt The BNP leader alleged that Awami League leaders and workers plundered large sums of money in the name of development during Sheikh Hasina’s despotic rule. He criticised India for providing shelter to such a deeply corrupt individual like Sheikh Hasina, who was responsible for the killing of many students and ordinary people in Bangladesh. Rizvi also questioned Sheikh Hasina’s status in India, pointing out that both her passports, including the diplomatic one, had been cancelled.

Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh will not cease its movement until a misrule-free Bangladesh is established, said the party Ameer Shafiqur Rahman on Friday. He mentioned the party's unwavering commitment to achieving an equitable and corruption-free Bangladesh during a workers' conference in Chuadanga. The Jamaat ameer began by highlighting the years of oppression faced by Jamaat-e-Islami, saying that the party’s leaders had been falsely accused and sentenced to death in fabricated cases, and thousands of activists had been killed under the Awami League’s rule. Awami League and its allies had looted religious institutions and carried out widespread destruction across the country, he also said. “Until we establish a corruption-free and misrule-free Bangladesh, Jamaat-e-Islami will not stop,” Shafiqur also said, asserting  reinforcing the party’s stance on continuing its movement for justice and fairness. Referring to the Awami League’s violent tenure, the Jamaat leader accused the AL of killing intellectuals, educators, and experienced citizens to maintain power. He also denounced the torture, abductions, and violations carried out under their governance.

BNP Advisory Council member Zainul Abedin Farroque has demanded that the interim government promptly announce the national election date by upholding the dignity of the July mass uprising. "I request the Chief Adviser of the interim government to immediately announce the election date without any further delay or wastage of time, in order to keep intact the honour of the second independence, earned at the cost of the blood of Abu Sayed and Mugdho," he said while addressing a rally on Friday. Jatiyatabadi Sangskritik Dal organised the programme at the Jatiya Press Club, demanding the announcement of a roadmap for the national election. Stay alert against rift over ‘July Declaration’: Salahuddin to govt Farroque, a former opposition chief whip, said the interim government should not waste unnecessary time holding the polls under the guise of reforms. "Reforms will continue, the election date will be set, and preparations for the election will also go on. I demand the immediate announcement of the election date," he said. The BNP leader recalled that former Justice Shahabuddin Ahmed, who was the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court at that time, arranged a free and fair election in Bangladesh in 1991 within a short time after the fall of autocratic ruler HM Ershad. He said there is now no need for so many reforms to hold a free, fair and credible election like that of 1991. The BNP leader observed that the nation needs reforms that will provide relief to the people and allow them to purchase rice and other essential commodities at reasonable prices. He slammed the government for increasing value-added tax (VAT) and supplementary duty (SD) on nearly 100 goods and services, making life more expensive. EC waiting for final shape of reform proposal: Commissioner Masud “You came to power through the revolution of students and the masses. You are in government through the students' movement. So, why have you imposed VAT on the tiffin boxes of school students? Why have you immorally imposed VAT on all daily essentials?” Farroque said. He said the country’s common people are facing severe hardships due to the VAT and SD increases. “Where they earlier managed to live on Tk 10,000 a month, now they cannot even make ends meet on Tk 25,000.” He alleged that a syndicate is profiting by buying hundreds of tickets, holding them in offices, and selling them at inflated prices to people intending to perform Umrah in Saudi Arabia, only because of the government’s inaction. All parties reach consensus on inclusive ‘July Declaration’: Asif Nazrul Farroque called upon the Civil Aviation Advisor to take proper steps to dismantle this unscrupulous syndicate so that people can buy tickets at fair prices to perform Umrah.

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed on Thursday urged the interim government to remain alert to ensure that no rift is created in the anti-fascist unity over the ‘July Declaration’. Talking to reporters after attending a meeting between the Chief Adviser and political parties and other forces at the Foreign Service Academy, the BNP leader said he raised the question at the meeting of whether a declaration for the July mass uprising was necessary after five and a half months had elapsed. Babar breaks down in tears at Ziaur Rahman’s grave “If any political document becomes a historical record, we will certainly respect it. But we have suggested including all concerned parties and taking their opinions into account when formulating such a document. We have requested the Chief Adviser and all relevant advisers to pay attention to this matter and take appropriate steps to ensure that no rift is created in national unity and no confusion arises among us,” the BNP leader said. He said it is now the biggest challenge for the nation to turn the national unity formed through the July-August mass uprising against fascism into a mass unity and nurture that unity within the country’s political culture and practice it. The BNP leader said the nation must maintain this unity and move forward by upholding it. “As part of our effort, we want to issue an inclusive political statement with all anti-fascist political parties. We must ensure that no fascist forces or their cohorts can sow the seeds of division within us." Salahuddin said he, on behalf of the BNP, attended the meeting and engaged in discussions in response to the Chief Adviser’s call. He said they provided their suggestions and thoughts on governance and various other matters they deemed necessary. All parties reach consensus on inclusive ‘July Declaration’: Asif Nazrul In response to a question, Salahuddin Ahmed said discussions took place regarding the July mass uprising declaration, and the leaders of all political parties shared their views. “We questioned whether there was actually any need for the proclamation of the July mass uprising after five and a half months. If so, the political, historical, and legal significance of the declaration must be determined. We have to be alert so that no rift is created in anti-fascist unity over this declaration,” he said. Responding to another question, Salahuddin said, "We have given various suggestions regarding the preparation of political documents." Asked whether BNP had any objections to the declaration, Salahuddin avoided the question. Earlier, Law Adviser Asif Nazrul said all political parties have reached a consensus about an inclusive “July Declaration” recognising the contributions of all parties and forces that participated in the recent mass uprising. BNP’s Salahuddin to join talks with interim govt over July Declaration  Briefing reporters after the meeting, he also said a work plan would be worked out soon regarding the formation of the July Declaration based on consensus.  Dr Asif said leaders of all political parties and forces involved in the July mass uprising, including BNP, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, Hefajat-e-Islam, Ganatantra Mancha, the Anti-Discrimination Movement, and the Jatiya Nagorik Committee, attended the meeting chaired by Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yuns at the Foreign Service Academy.

BNP leader Lutfozzaman Babar broke down in tears at the grave of party founder Ziaur Rahman in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar after his release from prison, following 17 years of incarceration.  Babar was freed from Dhaka’s central jail in Keraniganj around 1:45 pm, and made his way directly to Zia’s grave. Despite his frail health, he was accompanied by a convoy of several thousand BNP leaders and workers. The journey took approximately three hours.  Lutfozzaman Babar finally walks out of jail Upon arrival, Babar was visibly overwhelmed with emotion and broke down amidst his supporters. He was joined by BNP standing committee member Nazrul Islam Khan and senior joint secretary general Ruhul Kabir Rizvi. After regaining composure, Babar acknowledged the greetings of party leaders and workers. Babar first visited Zia’s grave, then went to the graves of his parents in Banani, before heading to his residence in Gulshan. Nazrul Islam Khan later spoke to the press, reflecting on Babar’s unjust imprisonment. “Our dear colleague, who endured over 17 years in prison and has now been proven innocent, is finally free,” he said. Babar among 6 acquitted in ten-truck arms haul case Khan added, “Babar, who was young and vigorous when imprisoned, was wrongfully incarcerated due to political vendetta and false charges. He spent nearly six years in a condemned cell. The toll on him has been immense, but we are grateful for the court’s decision to clear him of all charges.” Khan also praised Babar’s devotion to the BNP, noting that despite his ill health, he chose to visit Ziaur Rahman’s grave first, rather than go home to his family. A former Netrokona-4 MP, Babar served twice between 1991-1996 and 2001-2006. He was appointed the youngest state minister for home affairs in Khaleda Zia’s cabinet in 2001. High Court acquits Lutfozzaman Babar in corruption case Following his release, a large crowd gathered outside Dhaka Central Jail in Keraniganj to welcome him with flowers and congratulations. Babar’s legal battles began in 2007, resulting in multiple convictions, including two death sentences and one life sentence. However, after the fall of the Awami League government in 2024, Babar was gradually acquitted of all charges, including an 8-year corruption sentence and a death sentence in the August 21 grenade attack case.