United News of Bangladesh

BNP has taken all-out preparations to welcome its Chairperson Khaleda Zia with due reverence as she is set to return home on Monday after four months of medical treatment in London. “Naturally, we have a lot of emotions as our leader is returning home. Every patriotic person is also excited that their leader will return to the country. So, it is our moral responsibility to give her a proper reception,” said BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir. Talking to reporters after a joint meeting of the BNP’s two Dhaka city units and senior leaders of the party’s associate bodies at the BNP Chairperson’s Gulshan office, he also said, “Not only BNP, but also the people of the entire country are ready to welcome her.” The BNP leader said the joint meeting was held to ensure that people can greet the BNP chief in a disciplined manner upon her homecoming. “We hope that on May 5th (Monday), our leader Begum Khaleda Zia will return to us on a special flight, probably the same Qatar Royal Family’s air ambulance that she flew on to London,” he said. Fakhrul said they would confirm the time of her arrival later, as they have not yet received confirmation from the Qatari air ambulance authorities. He said they also arranged for her return via a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight, in case the Qatari air ambulance is not available. “There’s a possibility of a change. We may have confirmation within an hour. We’ll inform the press as soon as we receive it.” Excavating canals one of BNP’s political pillars: Amir Khosru The BNP leader said if Khaleda returns on the Biman flight, she is expected to reach Dhaka by 11am on Monday. “However, we’ll notify the media of the exact time if she travels by air ambulance.” Replying to a question, he said Khaleda is expected to be accompanied by her two daughters-in-law — Dr Zubaida Rahman, wife of BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman and Syeda Sharmila Rahman. Fakhrul said Khaleda is now feeling much healthier than before after receiving advanced treatment in a family environment. “That’s why she decided to return to the country.” He called upon BNP leaders and workers to stand on both sides of the road in a disciplined manner, without causing traffic congestion, to welcome their leader from the airport to her Gulshan residence. The BNP leader said it has been decided that their leaders and workers would carry the national flag in one hand and the party flag in the other to welcome Khaleda. “Our leaders will take necessary steps to ensure discipline during the reception.” He urged party members and journalists not to create any obstacles on her route so that she can return home smoothly. Fakhrul said it may take nearly 10 hours for the BNP chief to arrive at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport from London. “If she then remains stuck on the road for another four to five hours, she may become unwell. So, we must ensure she can reach home as quickly as possible.” Khaleda Zia travelled to London on 8 January in a special air ambulance sent by the Amir of Qatar. Upon arrival, she was admitted to the London Clinic, a private hospital, where she remained under the care of renowned specialists Professor Patrick Kennedy and Professor Jennifer Cross for 17 days. Since 25 January, she has been receiving treatment at the residence of her elder son, Tarique Rahman. BNP Media Cell member Shayrul Kabir Khan said Khaleda’s Gulshan residence ‘Firoza’ has been cleaned and prepared for her return. Khaleda Zia was imprisoned in 2018 under the then Sheikh Hasina-led government following a conviction in a corruption case filed by the Anti-Corruption Commission. In March 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the government temporarily released her on an executive order, suspending her sentence on condition that she remain at her Gulshan residence and not leave the country. On 6 August 2023, Khaleda Zia was fully freed by an order from President Mohammed Shahabuddin. Tarique Rahman, Dr Zubaida, and their daughter Zaima Rahman have been living in London since 2008. It will be Zubaida’s first return to Bangladesh in 17 years.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Wednesday said an opportunity has arisen for the nation, through immense sacrifices of blood, to build a new and democratic Bangladesh. “The main goal of the 1971 Liberation War was to establish a truly democratic state. A state founded on the opinions of all is a democratic state,” he said while exchanging views with teachers and students of Thakurgaon St. Mother Teresa School. The BNP leader said it is unfortunate that the nation has long been deprived of a democratic state, as Sheikh Hasina’s autocratic regime has destroyed democracy to cling to power by force, without the people's mandate. “We have got the opportunity once again. Our sons and daughters have given us the chance to create a new Bangladesh, where we can truly establish democracy by sacrificing the fresh blood of their hearts,” he said. The BNP leader observed that the entire world is now divided, with the growing incidents of violence, revenge, and conflict taking place across the globe. “The only way out of this is to foster love and affection among people and to build a new society where people can live anew.” BNP's labour wing to hold workers' rally in Dhaka on May Day Earlier in the day, Fakhrul attended the plaque unveiling ceremony of Sri Sri Shanidev Temple on the premises of the Kalibari Temple in Thakurgaon town, as the chief guest. Addressing the programme, the BNP leader told members of the Hindu community that every individual born in Bangladesh is a proud citizen of the country. “You (members of the Hindu community) have equal rights like all other citizens. You should never consider yourselves inferior. Do not regard yourselves as outsiders.” The BNP leader affirmed that members of the Hindu community have the right to support and participate in the politics of any party they choose. “This is your right. We believe in this. This is democracy. We are prepared to give our lives for it.” “During the War of Independence, we fought together, and at that time, no one considered whether someone was Hindu or Muslim,” he observed. Fakhrul also urged the members of the Hindu community to remain vigilant about the misuse of Facebook and other social media platforms. “Nowadays, Facebook and other platforms are being used to destabilise society,” he warned.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Tuesday warned his party leaders and activists against indulging in misdeeds, saying the country’s people will not spare BNP either if it follows the path of the deposed Awami League. “Our leaders and activists must not behave like those of the Awami League. If they do, people will not love them,” he said while speaking at a mass contact programme at the field of Molani High School in Chilarrang Union under Thakurgaon Sadar Upazila. The BNP leader also asked the senior leaders of all district units to remain alert about their party colleagues and take action against wrongdoers. “Take stern action or hand them over to the police if any BNP leader or activist is found involved in wrongdoing. Stop indulging in misdeeds. Otherwise, like the Awami League, BNP too will be thrown out by people,” he said. Fakhrul said under what he called the “autocratic” rule of Hasina, BNP leaders, activists and ordinary people faced harsh repression. He said there were incidents of enforced disappearances, killings, fabricated cases, looting, money laundering, suppression of freedom of speech and vote rigging during the Awami League regime. “Our leaders and activists were abducted, millions of them faced false cases, and many could not even stay in their homes. But we did not flee. We faced the false cases through legal means, hired lawyers and secured bail,” the BNP leader said. Fakhrul not keen on IG decision to allow humanitarian corridor for Rakhine “Why are you (Sheikh Hasina) in hiding? Why don’t you face the cases? Why don’t you return to the country and stand before the people?” he said. Fakhrul mentioned that he himself faced 111 cases and went to jail 11 times under the fascist Awami League government. “Khaleda Zia spent six years in jail. People from nearly every district were implicated in false cases. But we stayed in the country, we did not run away—we fought the cases legally,” he said. Pointing at the crowd, the BNP leader said many believe Sheikh Hasina may return to the country. “She ruled the country for 15 years. Her father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was a famous figure. She had no reason to flee the country. So why did she escape? Because she was a witch and the extent of her repression on people forced her to flee. Had the people found her then, they would have torn her apart.” Stating that BNP will not have to do anything if Hasina returns to do politics in this country, he said people themselves will not spare her. Fakhrul also questioned the role of the former Awami League MP in his constituency, claiming no development was carried out in the area because locals supported BNP. “There are many such areas where people were deprived because of their support for the BNP. Are such individuals fit to be public representatives?” he said. Calling on people to unite, he said, “Let us build a country based on love and unity.”

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Wednesday called upon the people of all walks of life to get united to restore democracy through a credible national election. “Everyone must unite to restore the democratic rights of the people of the country,” he said while addressing a views-exchange meeting at the BNP Chairperson’s office in Gulshan. A 20-member delegation of current and former pro-BNP student doctors of Rangpur Medical College (RMCH) took part in the meeting. Fakhrul said the Doctors’ Association of Bangladesh (DAB) is an important affiliate body of the party. He emphasised the need for further strengthening DAB in all medical colleges and hospitals across the country, making it a more organised and welfare-oriented organisation. Interim govt to decide about AL’s political course: Rizvi Fakhrul also recalled the contribution of DAB members in ensuring medical treatment for BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, who is now receiving treatment in the UK. He offered prayers for her speedy recovery and for the long life of Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman. During the meeting, the attending doctors expressed their strong support for the BNP’s ongoing political programmes and pledged to remain actively engaged in all future activities as per the directives from the party. Dr Tozammel Haque Bakul, Prof Dr Khondker Ziaul Islam Zia, Prof Dr Mahamudul Haque Sarkar, Prof Dr Shariful Islam Mondol, Dr Ziaul Haque, Dr Abu Md Ahsan Firoz, Dr Ashraful Islam, and Dr Mizanur Rahman Shamim, among others, attended the meeting.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Sunday expressed the hope that the ongoing political issues would be resolved and people would have their own representatives soon through an election. “We have submitted our proposals to reform commissions...we are also engaging in discussions with them. We believe that a truly acceptable solution will emerge through talks, and people will soon get their own representatives through an election within a short time,” he said at a discussion-cum-doa mahfil. Jatiyatabadi Sramik Dal organised the programme at the Institution of Diploma Engineers, Bangladesh, in memory of BNP Vice Chairman Abdullah Al Noman, who died on February 25 this year. Fakhrul said the nation is going through a difficult time as democracy has yet to be restored in the country. “The present time is testing us. If you watch TV, talk shows, or read newspapers, you'll notice that we're going through a turbulent time. We are turning some settled matters into uncertainty,” he said. The BNP leader also said the words "reform" and "election" are now being frequently discussed everywhere. “We believe it is the responsibility of everyone, including political parties and other stakeholders, to address the problems through patient and constructive discussions.” JCD blames Anti-Discrimination Movement for killing activist at Primeasia University Fakhrul called upon BNP leaders and activists to keep in mind that their struggle for democracy is not yet over. “We have not yet achieved our democratic transition. We have not yet secured an elected government and parliament through a proper election.” In such a context, he urged the BNP rank and file to work with utmost caution, awareness and perseverance to further strengthen the party and its organisations. Fakhrul denounced the killing of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal activist Jahidul Islam Parvez, also a student at the textile engineering department of Primeasia University. He said those responsible for killing a dedicated student leader like Parvez did not embody the spirit of last year's student movement, which was driven by a desire for positive change. The BNP leader also said those who engage in divisive politics were behind Parvez's death. “They are neither pro-people, pro-democratic, nor pro-working-class forces.” Fakhrul said Abdullah Al Noman was a rare politician who dedicated himself solely to the country and its people, rising above narrow personal interests. In the current time of democratic transition, he said, the presence of a leader like Noman was essential to guide the nation in the right direction. BNP Standing Committee Member Nazrul Islam Khan recalled Noman’s contributions to Bangladeshi politics, particularly in advocating for the rights of the working class. “He was a true friend of the workers. He was an outstanding labour leader and remained dedicated to the working class until his last day,” he said. Stating that Noman was a former president of Jatiyatabadi Sramik Dal, Nazrul urged the leaders and members of the organisation to strengthen their organisational capacity as a mark of true respect to the late workers’ leader and BNP vice chairman.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, along with his wife, will return home on Monday (April 14) completing their medical check-ups in Singapore. Speaking to UNB on Friday afternoon, Fakhrul said, “InshaAllah, we will return home in the afternoon on April 14.” He said all of their medical test results are good. “My wife is doing well and she is healthy and in good condition.” Mirza Fakhrul and his wife, Rahat Ara Begum, travelled to Singapore on April 6 for routine health examinations. BNP to go for 'serious' deregulation to liberalise economy, promote investment Two days after Fakhrul’s return, a BNP delegation led by him is scheduled to meet Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on April 16 to press for a clear and specific roadmap for the upcoming national election and to dispel the confusion surrounding the polls and proposed reforms. The meeting will be held at the Chief Adviser’s official residence State Guest House Jamuna at 12:00 noon.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has alleged that a vested quarter is deliberately misinterpreting the statement of BNP’s stance on reforms. He also clarified that the party fully supports the necessary reforms required for a free and fair election. Fakhrul came up with the remarks while talking to reporters at his residence in Thakurgaon district town on Wednesday. People celebrating Eid in ‘free atmosphere,’ restoration of democracy essential: Fakhrul "Our stance on reforms is being misinterpreted. Some certain quarters are spreading misinformation that BNP wants elections first and reforms later. This is completely false. We have always advocated for reforms," said the BNP leader. "We have said that the minimum necessary reforms must be implemented to ensure a fair and free election. At no point have we said elections first and reforms later. This is a distortion of our position, aimed at misleading the public," he added. Fakhrul urges Dr Yunus to remove advisers compromising govt’s neutrality He also emphasised BNP’s strong support for reforms in the electoral system, law enforcement and the judiciary to ensure a fair election process. Mentioning those involved in the reform as scholar, wise and people with great degrees, the BNP leader said “We respect and honour them. However, if they act beyond public interest, we cannot support that." "Democracy is the best system of governance. If any political party turns authoritarian after coming to power, the people will remove them. They will face the same fate as the Awami League government," he warned. China visit a ‘major success’ for interim government: Fakhrul "Every political party has its own opinions, but it is the people who will decide which is best for them. Political parties will present their policies to the public and those who receive the people’s support will form the government and parliament—that is democracy," he added.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir will attend a reception at Bangabhaban this (Wednesday) afternoon. President Mohammed Shahabuddin and First Lady Dr Rebeka Sultana will host  the reception, marking the Independence Day. “BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir will participate in the reception at Bangabhaban at 4 pm, at the invitation of the President, on the occasion of 26 March,” said Sayrul Kabir Khan, a member of the BNP media cell. BNP seeks clear election roadmap, criticises Dr Yunus for ambiguity The reception is expected to be attended by the Chief Justice, advisers, ambassadors and high commissioners from various countries, Supreme Court judges, the chiefs of the three armed services, senior political leaders, journalists, academics, business leaders, artistes, valiant freedom fighters, family members of the Birshreshtha gallantry award recipients and other distinguished citizens. Every year, 26 March brings to mind the darkest chapter in the nation's history, marking the beginning of a nine-month-long bloody struggle from the night of 25 March 1971, which culminated in the hard-won independence on 16 December of the same year, at the cost of immense sacrifice.

Voicing frustration over Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus' address to the nation, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Wednesday expressed disappointment that the interim government head did not present a clear roadmap for the national election. “I am very disappointed that the Chief Adviser did not mention a clear election roadmap in his speech yesterday (Tuesday),” he said while speaking to reporters after paying homage to BNP founder Ziaur Rahman at his grave. Fakhrul, along with party leaders and workers, placed a wreath at Zia’s grave, paying tribute to him on the occasion of Independence Day. He said the announcement of election between December and June is a vague statement. “It is very vague. December to June... six months. So, no roadmap has been given.” The BNP leader reiterated that their party has consistently called for a clear roadmap and prompt elections. Otherwise, he warned, the crisis that has been created will not be resolved. Fakhrul said their party is not talking about the election merely to come to power. BNP holds prayers seeking early recovery of Tamim “BNP is advocating for the election in the interest of the nation, to protect the nation, to protect independence and sovereignty, and for the establishment of an elected parliament and government,” Fakhrul said. He said they hope the interim government will quickly carry out the necessary minimum reforms for the election and subsequently announce the election schedule. Fakhrul, along with BNP Standing Committee Member Mirza Abbas, led thousands of leaders and activists to Zia’s grave to pay homage to the party founder, whom they consider the proclaimer of the Liberation War. After placing the wreath, they also offered Fateha, praying for the salvation of Zia’s departed soul. Earlier in the day, party leaders and activists, led by BNP Standing Committee member Mirza Abbas, laid a wreath at the National Memorial in Savar, paying tribute to the brave martyrs of the Liberation War. Fakhrul also expressed disappointment that in his speech, Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus did not mention the name of martyred President Ziaur Rahman, the brave freedom fighter who declared independence, even once. “But this was history,” he said. He also said the BNP does not want the history distorted by the Awami League to be altered again. The BNP leader said the sooner a democratic and elected government is established in the country, as per the people’s desire, the sooner the country’s problems will be resolved.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Saturday urged the democratic forces to be more sincere in building a livable Bangladesh for the future generation.  “A ray of hope has emerged among us. We must all be more sincere to rebuild Bangladesh. We need to work together to create a sustainable and livable Bangladesh for the generations to come,” he said. The BNP leader made the remarks while speaking at a discussion meeting at the Jatiya Press Club, held to mark the posthumous Ekushey Padak award given to renowned journalist late Mahfuz Ullah. Fakhrul said political parties had struggled against fascism and endured repression and suppression for a long time. “Fascism has been defeated and driven out through that movement. Today, we are all filled with hope for the country,” he said. Fakhrul expressed his satisfaction that a virtuous and talented journalist like Mahfuz Ullah has been honoured by the state with the Ekushey Padak after his passing. He said Mahfuz Ullah had always worked towards bringing about social change, establishing the rights of the people and ensuring their entitlements. The BNP leader reminisced that Mahfuz Ullah had played a significant role in uniting political parties, both left-wing and right-wing, to intensify the movement against the autocratic regime of Sheikh Hasina. Hold national election without delay, Fakhrul urges govt  The interim government has awarded the 2025 Ekushey Padak to 17 prominent people, including journalist Mahfuz Ullah, and the Bangladesh women's football team, in recognition of their contributions to various fields. Chief Advisor Dr Muhammad Yunus attended the ceremony as the chief guest at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in Dhaka on Thursday and presented the medals. Paying tribute to Mahfuz Ullah, Fakhrul said the nation would best show its respect for him by transforming Bangladesh into a democratic and humane country. "We have come a long way, and now there are many young people who are rethinking the future of the country. But, in that reflection, we must remember one thing: we should never forget Mahfuz Ullah and those who contributed to this nation.” Describing the late Mahfuz Ullah as a ‘progressive’, ‘patriotic’, and ‘brilliant’ journalist, Fakhrul said he never hesitated to call a spade a spade. "I miss Mahfuz Ullah. I truly miss him. Losing him has left a huge void for us. I am pleased that he has received such posthumous recognition, and I thank the interim government for this," he said. The BNP leader also prayed for the salvation of Mahfuz Ullah's departed soul. BNP Standing Committee members Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku, Chairperson's Advisory Council members Ismail Zabihullah, Nazmul Haque Nannu, political scientist Professor Dilara Chowdhury, Dhaka University Professor Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir, Chief Advisor's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam, BSS Managing Director Mahbub Morshed, senior journalist Amirul Islam Kagoji, and Mahfuz Ullah's son Mostafa Habib were among those who addressed the programme, with Professor Mahbub Ullah in the chair.