BNP
Quick election possible as EC can complete voter list updating by June: BNP
After a meeting with the Election Commission (EC), BNP Senior Leader Nazrul Islam Khan on Sunday said it is possible to hold the next election promptly, as the Commission is confident to complete the updated voter list by May or June next.
"From their (EC’s) words, it seems to us that they will be ready for the election with a completely updated voter list by May or June," he said while speaking to reporters after the meeting at Nirbachan Bhaban.
Nazrul, a BNP standing committee member, however, said the EC does not have the authority to make the final decision regarding the election.
According to the constitution and conventional rules, he said, a parliamentary election must be held in the country within 90 days of the resignation of a government, but currently, the country is not being run in accordance with that law.
The BNP said the government now needs to request the Election Commission to conduct the election based on political consensus.
“But, we understand that if the complete voter list is ready by next May and June, then a quick election is possible by addressing other relevant issues,” he said.
Nazrul said they primarily discussed with the Election Commission what the Commission is currently doing and its preparations for the national election. The EC is working on updating the voter list, which is expected to be finalised by March 2, he added.
The BNP leader said the EC has informed them that around 30 lakh new voters--who were not registered previously--will be added to the updated voter list. "Around 1.5 million deceased voters will also be excluded. Ultimately, 15 lakh voters are expected to be added to the voter list."
In response to a question about whether they are satisfied with the EC’s election preparations, Nazrul said, "Well, according to the law, what they are supposed to do, we understand that they are doing it correctly."
Regarding the recommendations of the reform commission, Nazrul said that the government will discuss the reform commission's recommendations with stakeholders. "If a decision is made to amend the law or regulations based on those discussions, the Election Commission must comply with them.”
Asked whether the Election Commission’s concern about losing its power if some proposals of the election reform commission are implemented was discussed, the BNP leader replied, "Look, that’s their matter, they will speak on it."
He, however, said if BNP finds any proposal from the reform commission to be an obstacle to conducting a fair election, the party will oppose it, just like the Election Commission would.
Top of FormBottom of FormEarlier, a three-member BNP delegation had a meeting with the Election Commission (EC), including the Chief Election Commissioner, to discuss various issues, including preparations for the upcoming national election.
The hour-long meeting that began at 3:30 pm was held in the conference room of the Agargaon Nribachan Bhaban.
The delegation, led by Nazrul Islam Khan, participated in the meeting. The other members of the BNP delegation were party Standing Committee members Salahuddin Ahmed and Selima Rahman.
Alongside the Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin, Election Commissioners Anwarul Islam Sarkar, Abdur Rahmanel Masud, Begum Tahmida Ahmad, and Brigadier General (retd) Abul Fazal Md. Sanaullah, as well as EC Secretary Akhtar Ahmed, participated in the meeting.
Before the formal meeting, the BNP delegation entered the Election Building and met with the Chief Election Commissioner at his office around 3 pm. Later, they joined the formal meeting with the EC.
This was the BNP’s first official meeting with the newly formed Election Commission, which was established on November 21 under the leadership of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasiruddin.
The BNP is aiming for the national election to take place in the middle of this year.
On Saturday, the party announced plans to hold 64 public rallies across the country to generate public support for the swift announcement of an election roadmap.
The meeting with the Election Commission is part of the party’s broader efforts to pressure for the prompt holding of the election.
Following the meeting with the EC, a BNP delegation is scheduled to meet Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Monday to discuss the country’s current situation, various election-related issues, and reforms.
3 hours ago
BNP leaders meet EC to discuss election preparations
A three-member BNP delegation has sat in a meeting with the Election Commission (EC), including the Chief Election Commissioner, to discuss various issues, including preparations for the upcoming national election.
The meeting began at 3:30 pm in the conference room of the Agargaon Nribachan Bhaban.
The delegation, led by BNP Standing Committee member Nazrul Islam Khan, participated in the meeting. The other members of the BNP delegation are party Standing Committee members Salahuddin Ahmed and Selima Rahman.
BNP to hold meeting with EC to discuss election preparations
Alongside the Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin, Election Commissioners Anwarul Islam Sarkar, Abdur Rahmanel Masud, Begum Tahmida Ahmad, and Brigadier General (retd) Abul Fazal Md. Sanaullah, as well as EC Secretary Akhtar Ahmed, participated in the meeting.
Before the formal meeting, the BNP delegation entered the Election Building and met with the Chief Election Commissioner at his office around 3 pm. Later, they joined the formal meeting with the EC.
BNP announces nationwide rallies over high prices, slide in law and order
BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed said, "We’re here to discuss various issues, including preparations for the national elections. We want to be informed about the commission's work related to the parliamentary election."
He said the meeting would focus on exchanging views with the EC on several issues related to the upcoming election.
The BNP leader said the primary agenda for the meeting was to discuss the current status of preparations for the national election, including the progress of the voter list and other electoral activities.
Salahuddin said they would also discuss electoral law reforms and other issues the party considers necessary. “We also have some proposals from the party regarding the election, which we will present to the commission during the meeting,” he said.
This is the BNP’s first official meeting with the newly formed Election Commission, which was established on November 21 under the leadership of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasiruddin.
The BNP is aiming for the national election to take place in the middle of this year.
On Saturday, the party announced plans to hold 64 public rallies across the country to generate public support for the swift announcement of an election roadmap.
The meeting with the Election Commission is part of the party’s broader efforts to pressure for the prompt holding of the election.
Following the meeting with the EC, a BNP delegation is scheduled to meet Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Monday to discuss the country’s current situation, various election-related issues, and reforms.
4 hours ago
BNP to hold meeting with EC to discuss election preparations
The BNP is set to hold a formal meeting with the Election Commission (EC) this (Sunday) afternoon to discuss various issues, including preparations for the next national election.
A three-member delegation, led by BNP Standing Committee member Nazrul Islam Khan, will go to the Agargaon Election Building at 3:30 pm, said BNP media cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan.
The other delegation members are party Standing Committee members Salahuddin Ahmed and Selima Rahman.
Speaking to the media, Salahuddin Ahmed said the meeting would focus on exchanging views with the EC on several issues related to the upcoming election.
He said the primary agenda for the meeting would be to discuss the current status of preparations for the national election, including the progress of the voter list and other electoral activities.
Salahuddin said they would also discuss electoral law reforms and other issues the party considers necessary. “We also have some proposals from the party regarding the election, which we will present to the commission during the meeting,” he said.
Will quit after election following basic reforms: Asif Nazrul
This will be the BNP’s first official meeting with the newly formed Election Commission, which was established on November 21 under the leadership of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasiruddin.
The BNP is aiming for the national election to take place in the middle of this year.
On Saturday, the party announced plans to hold 64 public rallies across the country to generate public support for the swift announcement of an election roadmap.
The meeting with the Election Commission is part of the party’s broader efforts to pressure for holding the election promptly.
Election schedule depends on July Charter: CA’s Press Secretary
Following the meeting with the EC, a BNP delegation is scheduled to meet Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Monday to discuss the country’s current situation and various election-related issues and reforms.
8 hours ago
Support for govt to continue despite its “weak nature”: Hafizuddin
BNP Standing Committee member Major (retd) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed has said that support for the interim government will continue despite its “weak nature,” aiming to restore stability in the country.
"Lawlessness is not something we want. We hope that the current government, despite its weaknesses, will restore law and order and establish a democratic environment," he said while speaking at a seminar in Bhola on Saturday.
He said the unrest in society is growing and stressed the need for decisive government action to restore stability.
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Despite concerns over the government's effectiveness, he reaffirmed the BNP’s willingness to cooperate, stating, "We are aware of the government's weaknesses, but we will still cooperate for the greater good of the country."
Hafiz Uddin also described Prof Yunus as a "pride of the nation" and said he would engage with political parties to help create a more stable and democratic environment.
Tarique provides house to family of slain Jubo Dal leader
"…while we speak of development, we remain a poor nation. The concept of 'development' has been imported to hide poverty. Compared to developed countries, we are far behind, and we must strive for greater progress," he added.
Lalmonirhat Upazila Jamaat Ameer Maulana Md Abdul Haque was also present at the event.
1 day ago
BNP delegation meets ex-US assistant secretary Robert Destro
A three-member BNP delegation, including party Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman’s daughter Zaima Rahman, met Robert A. Destro, the former US Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labour.
The delegation held the meeting with Robert Destro in Washington on Wednesday, according to a post on the party's verified Facebook page.
However, the party did not elaborate on the outcome or the topics discussed during the meeting.
The other two members of the delegation were BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Standing Committee Member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury.
Earlier, the delegation met former South Carolina Governor David Beasley in Washington.
BNP delegation led by Zaima meets former South Carolina Governor David Beasley
The meetings took place ahead of the National Prayer Breakfast, a significant annual event hosted by the National Prayer Breakfast Foundation.
Zaima travelled to Washington from London on Tuesday, representing her father, while BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Standing Committee Member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury arrived in the USA on Sunday for the event.
Robert A. Destro, currently working with the Trump administration’s transition team, is an experienced American lawyer, educator, government official and advocate for human, and civil rights law.
He has previously served as a commissioner of the US Commission on Civil Rights and is highly regarded for his expertise in electoral, employment and constitutional law.
3 days ago
Tarique questions reform focus, fears delay in people's govt
BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has raised concerns over whether the continued emphasis on reforms is being used as a pretext to delay the establishment of a people's government.
“We notice that some people are prolonging all kinds of processes by talking about reforms, reforms. Today, we have to see whether this (harping on reforms) is a conspiracy. If this process is prolonged on the plea of reforms, then the country's problems will multiply,” he said on Wednesday.
The BNP leader said this while addressing a programme at Saber Pilot High School field of Songazi in Feni through a virtual platform.
The event was arranged on the occasion of providing a new house as a gift from Tarique Rahman to the family of Sonagazi Upazila‘s slain Jubo Dal leader Mohammad Masud.
Tarique said the people’s government must be established to address various existing problems like commodity price-hike, unemployment problem, poor education system and poor law and order condition – in line with the public expectation.
“The sooner we can establish a people's government, the sooner we will be able to lead Bangladesh on the path to prosperity,” he said.
Movement to Continue
The BNP acting chairman asked the BNP leaders and activists to take a promise not to stop their struggle and movement until the dignity of Masud and others who were killed by the previous dictator regimes and the people’s rule are established.
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“Our struggle will not stop; rather our movement will continue until the people's rule is established ….. Our movement will continue until that democracy is established,” he said.
Tarique said the rule of democracy for the people of Bangladesh must be established in a bid to pay due respect to the souls of those who were martyred during the movement against the dictatorship.
Fugitive Dictator Can No Way be Spared
The BNP leader said the dictator (meaning Hasina) who fled Bangladesh can no way be spared from justice for killing and injuring so many people during her regime. Thousands of people were victims of killings and enforced disappearances, while tens of thousands of people injured and thousands of people crippled before her fleeing, he said.
Tarique Rahman said those who are responsible for these killings and tortures must be tried under the law of the land. “Those who are responsible for these killings must be brought to justice.”
Tarique said those who are responsible for those incidents would be encouraged in future if their leader (Hasina) is not tried.
He urged all pro-democracy political activists and political parties to be united in a one point that the dictator who fled to India must be brought to justice. “She can no way be spared. She is responsible for these killings.”
BNP proposes NHS-style universal health system for Bangladesh
The BNP acting chairman asked their leaders and activists to stay alert so that infiltrators will not be able to hamper their movement for restoration of democracy.
“All of you have to be vigilant and alert against all these infiltrators so that they can in no way disrupt our movement to establish democracy,” said Tarique.
BNP vice chairman Abdul Awal Mintoo, senior joint secretary general Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, joint secretary general Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Annie and BNP Chairperson's advisory council member Zainul Abedin Farroque, among others, spoke on the occasion.
At the function, the key of the newly constructed house was handed over to Masud’s spouse in the function.
Election only way to promptly implement state-overhauling proposals: Tarique
Masud, a victim of extrajudicial killing, was shot dead in a so-called crossfire on June 25, 2016.
Since his death, his family, including his wife and daughter—now a tenth grader—has been struggling, prompting the BNP acting chairman to extend his support.
4 days ago
BNP proposes NHS-style universal health system for Bangladesh
The BNP has unveiled an outline for national health sector reforms, aiming to establish a universal health system based on UK’s National Health Service (NHS) model.
BNP Standing Committee member and former Health Minister Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain presented the BNP’s various short, medium and long-term proposals on Tuesday, to address the challenges faced by the health sector and carry out necessary reforms for its development.
“Just as quality healthcare for the marginalised population has not been ensured, so too has medical education not been planned effectively in Bangladesh,” he said.
The BNP leader said the country’s healthcare system has failed to compete regionally or internationally, prompting many people to seek medical treatment abroad.
BNP slams LPG price hike as ‘illogical, anti-people’
He also said the private healthcare system in the country has not yet become universally accessible to all citizens.
Mosharraf said healthcare should be recognised as a fundamental right for all and the current systems have not achieved the expected level of social equity in healthcare access.
In light of universal health coverage, he said BNP has proposed health sector reform in section 26 of its 31-point outline for restructuring the state.
According to this section, Mosharraf said BNP, based on the policy of "health for all," will take steps to ensure the right to free healthcare for everyone in line with the existing system of a developed welfare state.
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“All necessary steps will be taken to ensure the highest level of healthcare for all, in line with the National Health Service of the United Kingdom or national Universal Health Coverage,” he said.
If their party returns to power, the BNP leader said, they will expand the social safety nets for disadvantaged populations until poverty is eradicated and the national budget allocation for health will be no less than 5% of GDP.
He also said their party plans to ensure the availability of a sufficient number of trained health workers—both men and women—to provide primary and preventive healthcare.
Mosharraf said their proposal includes ensuring treatment, education, and research for both infectious and non-communicable diseases.
Regarding Bangladesh's healthcare system, he said all plans, guidelines, and policies are often formulated with the consideration of registered medical doctors under the Medical and Dental Council.
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“As a result, the existence of traditional medicine systems in the country, such as Unani, Ayurvedic, Homeopathic, and Kabiraji treatments, is being neglected. So, it is equally important to provide necessary research and various support for the further development, modernisation and scientific advancement of these traditional medical systems," the BNP leader said.
He criticised the previous Awami League government for what he described as mismanagement, corruption, and political patronage in the health sector over the past 15 years, which has led to a deteriorating doctor-patient relationship and an increase in people seeking medical treatment abroad.
In BNP's proposal for the comprehensive development of the health sector, Mosharraf outlined a three-step approach for improvement.
“Our proposal includes short-term (one to three years) plans. In this, we have emphasised the recruitment of rural health assistants. We have mentioned the improvement of service quality at the upazila health complex, transforming it into an effective primary referral centre, ensuring necessary specialised services, and planned family planning and population management,” he said.
The BNP leader said they also proposed providing each citizen with the best healthcare under a government-registered general physician at the state's expense.
He said the existing district-level hospitals and specialised healthcare services will be strengthened, and an accurate reference system will be implemented.
Besides, Mosharraf said a 24-hour helpline, emergency medical services, post-accident care and quick transportation arrangements will be ensured.
“We will also focus on equitable access to healthcare, and formulate laws for patients and service providers to ensure fairness. A mechanism will be put in place to improve the doctor-patient relationship through the coordination of community representatives,” he said.
Besides, he said, they have outlined medium-term (one to five years) and long-term (up to ten years) plans aimed at bringing radical changes to the entire healthcare system.
The BNP leader said they welcome the interim government's initiative for health sector reforms. “We are presenting our proposals, but we do not expect them to have the capability to implement these proposals, nor do we expect they will be in power for that long.”
He said they are presenting their proposals to inform the public about it, with the intention of implementing them if they are voted into power.
Paying tribute to those who lost their lives in the student-led mass revolution, Mosharraf called upon the government to take immediate steps to ensure adequate medical care for those injured during the movement.
5 days ago
BNP slams LPG price hike as ‘illogical, anti-people’
BNP has strongly protested the rise in the price of a 12-kg LPG cylinder, describing it as a completely ‘illogical and anti-people’ decision.
Speaking to reporters after paying tribute to party founder Ziaur Rahman on Tuesday, party Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said the interim government has taken this move due to its lack of accountability.
Earlier, Rizvi, along with the leaders of the newly formed convening committee of the BNP’s Manikganj district unit, placed wreaths at Zia's grave.
“This decision will put immense pressure on low-income and poor people, such as rickshaw pullers, CNG drivers and small shopkeepers,” he said.
The BNP argued that the price hike of the cylindered gas, which is used for household purposes, will exert serious strain on the economy. “It will burden the poor. This decision is completely unjustified and anti-people. It would not have occurred had there been an elected government,” he said.
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The BNP leader also said their party and other democratic groups have been supporting the interim government, but warned that no undemocratic measures should be taken that would cause further hardship for the poor and low-income people.
He voiced concern that the prices of all essential items, including rice, have already exceeded the purchasing power of the poor. “In such circumstances, raising the price of the gas cylinder will only add salt to the wound of the people.”
On Sunday, the government raised the price of a 12kg LPG cylinder by Tk 19, with the new retail price set at Tk 1,478.
The BNP leader said the country’s economy is struggling amid there is no new investment for a lack a democratic government. “No one is daring to invest because the interim government is a temporary government. So, people are uncertain. People are in a state of confusion. To end this uncertainty, a political government is needed,” he said.
Rizvi also said the country now needs a government that can restore power to the people and reflect their will in running the country. “We need an elected government that will be accountable to the people to overcome our economic crisis.”
BNP proposes NHS-style universal health system for Bangladesh
He criticised the current government, saying it is running the country with a heavy reliance on foreign loans, while national reserves are starting to dwindle.
The BNP leader warned, "Dark clouds are looming on the horizon. To overcome these, we must move towards an elected government."
The BNP leader called upon the government to stop trying to prolong its power by creating a smokescreen in the name of reforms.
He said the first and foremost responsibility of the interim government is to ensure a free and fair election.
“Who will form a party or create an organisation is not the responsibility of the chief advisor. The responsibility to ensure elections within a specific time frame lies with you (chief advisor). If this is not done, it will create fear and suspicion in the minds of the people about whether a 'ghost' of Sheikh Hasina may emerge,” Rizvi said.
5 days ago
Zaima to represent father Tarique at National Prayer Breakfast, sparking political speculations
In a significant political development, Barrister Zaima Rahman, daughter of BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman, is set to represent her father at the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, DC, on Wednesday, sparking various speculations about her potential political journey in Bangladesh.
Zaima’s participation in this high-profile global event is being closely observed by political circles and analysts, as it will be her first involvement in an official political programme on behalf of BNP.
Political analysts believe that Zaima’s involvement in this prestigious international event marks a significant moment for BNP, as the party looks to renew itself and make strategic moves ahead of the next national election.
They also view February 5, 2025, as potentially the beginning of a new chapter in Bangladesh’s political history, with Barrister Zaima Rahman set to play a key role in BNP’s future politics.
The National Prayer Breakfast is a significant event attended by prominent international leaders, which will place Zaima in direct contact with global figures and provide an international platform to represent both Bangladesh and the BNP.
BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Standing Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury arrived in the USA on Sunday to attend the event. The trio will participate in the event, which is set to take place on Wednesday and Thursday.
Speaking to UNB before leaving the flight, Fakhrul said BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has also been invited to this event. “As he is unable to attend, his daughter Barrister Zaima Rahman will represent him.”
Fakhrul said Zaima will travel to Washington from London to join the programme.
He said they are likely to hold discussions with leaders from various countries, including the US, on the sidelines of the event.
On January 11, the National Prayer Breakfast Committee extended invitations to BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, and Standing Committee Member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury to participate in the event.
BNP sources said Tarique Rahman is not attending the event as he is staying in the UK to take care of his mother, BNP chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who is currently receiving medical treatment there.
Read: Fakhrul, Khosru, Zaima set to attend US National Prayer Breakfast
As news of Zaima’s participation in the event spreads, many BNP leaders and workers have taken to social media to express their excitement and extend their best wishes to her. This move has sparked speculation about Zaima’s potential entry into active politics.
Political analysts suggest that, given her background in a prominent political family—being the granddaughter of Ziaur Rahman, the founder of BNP, the current chairperson Khaleda Zia, and the daughter of Tarique Rahman—her eventual entry into politics seems inevitable.
Much like political dynasties such as India’s Gandhi family, which has seen multiple generations take on leadership roles, many believe that Zaima will follow suit and continue her family’s political legacy.
Although she has been living and studying in the UK, Zaima has thus far maintained a low profile in terms of direct political involvement.
Educated in law, Zaima has previously refrained from engaging in active politics, despite being part of a family deeply entrenched in the political landscape of Bangladesh.
However, her role as a representative of the BNP at this international event is seen as her first step into the political spotlight.
Sources within BNP said this could signal her eventual role in the party’s leadership, especially as the party wants to involve younger, dynamic figures to carry its political vision forward.
Political analyst Mohiuddin Khan Mohan said it seems certain that Zaima will eventually enter politics, given her political family background. “Whether it happens today or tomorrow, her involvement in politics is important, especially for future generations.”
Read more: Dr Zafrullah wants Zaima to be back home to intensify movement
He drew a parallel with India’s Gandhi family, where multiple generations—such as Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, and Rahul Gandhi—have all been involved in politics.
“Similarly, in Bangladesh, figures from the Zia family, such as Ziaur Rahman, Begum Khaleda Zia, and Tarique Rahman, have been prominent in politics. So, it is natural for Zaima to enter politics as well. If she participates in the 'National Prayer Breakfast' event instead of Tarique Rahman, she will represent Bangladesh and engage with globally recognised figures, which could be seen as a positive development.”
BNP Executive Committee member Abu Naser Mohammad Rahmatullah said it would be a positive development if Zaima steps into politics.
“It’s natural for a member of a political family to enter politics. Those who came from the Zia family in the past were warmly welcomed by the people of the country, and those who will come in the future will also be embraced overwhelmingly. Zaima will not be an exception in this regard.”
He believes that, as a young figure, Zaima can play an important role in strengthening the party and attracting the younger generation to its politics.
Another BNP leader, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said Zaima is a young and significant figure for the new generation in politics. “Her participation in political programmes could be a strategy by the Zia family to introduce a ‘political heir’.”
He said the growing anticipation surrounding Zaima’s involvement has sparked discussions about her future political journey as it could be a deliberate move by Tarique and Khaleda Zia to bring in fresh leadership to the party from their family.
Read more: Bring Zaima back home to revive BNP: Dr Zafrullah
Following the student-led mass uprising which led to the ousting of Sheikh Hasina’s prolonged authoritarian regime, the BNP leader said the younger generation is expected to play a vital role in the upcoming election.
On the other hand, he said student leaders who led the anti-discrimination movement are planning to form a new political party. “In such a situation, Zaima can play a crucial role in strengthening BNP’s appeal among the younger generation. She may even join the next national election.”
Another BNP leader said Khaleda Zia introduced Tarique to politics at a very young age to prepare him to take the helm of the party in her absence. “Tarique Rahman also stepped into 60 on November 20 last year. Therefore, it would be a wise move for him to bring Zaima into politics and prepare her to lead the party in the future.”
He said sending Zaima to a global event to represent Tarique is a clear signal regarding her potential political future. “I believe Zaima would continue to support her father in his political endeavours, just as Tarique supported his mother in the past. However, whether she will fully step into the political arena remains uncertain.”
Zaima was frequently seen with her grandmother at various events during Khaleda’s tenure as Prime Minister. After Tarique was arrested during the political changeover in 2007 and later released on bail in 2008, the family moved to London, where they have remained since.
Zaima obtained a law degree from Queen Mary University of London and later received her Bar-at-Law certification from Lincoln's Inn in 2019.
She grew up with her grandmother Khaleda Zia at their residence in Dhaka Cantonment. Zaima attended the International School Dhaka (ISD) for her education during her stay in Dhaka.
In 2009, on her 14th birthday, BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia celebrated with a cake at her office, shortly after Zaima moved abroad.
6 days ago
Election only way to promptly implement state-overhauling proposals: Tarique
Urging the government not to take too much time in holding polls in the name of reforms, BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has said election is the only way to promptly implement the state-overhauling proposals by elected representatives.
Speaking virtually at a workshop on Sunday, he also warned that the country will fall into a deep crisis and the fallen fascists will reemerge if the election is delayed due to prolonged discussions on reforms.
BNP’s Dhaka South City Unit arranged the programme at Kadamtali Balur Maath in the capital’s Shyampur area to train party leaders and workers on the party’s 31-point state-overhauling proposals.
“We’re now hearing continuous discussions about reforms. We would like to tell those talking about reforms that BNP stands at the forefront in support of them,” Tarique said.
He said there is no alternative to holding elections and handing over power to the elected representatives to implement the reform proposals. "Elections are the only way to implement the proposals made by BNP or the interim government’s commissions.”
The BNP leader said only those entrusted with responsibility by people through elections will be able to begin the work on reform, and they must be the ones to start it.
Fakhrul, Khosru off to USA to attend National Prayer Breakfast
He said the further the government delays the election, the longer the reform implementation process will take. “The work of implementing reforms must begin with those who are elected. Those elected will promise the people that, if given the opportunity, they will implement these reforms.”
Tarique said the faster reforms are implemented, the quicker it will be possible to protect the country and its people from danger. "I believe accountability to people can be ensured through elections... everyone must understand this."
He said some people ask whether all the country’s problems will be solved by holding just an election. “I say, no, not all problems will be solved immediately. But through elections, through the votes and decisions of the people, the party or persons given the opportunity to govern the country will gradually begin to untangle the knots and resolve the problems."
Tarique cautioned that the autocrats, driven out by all the people of Bangladesh, irrespective of political party or profession, will once again find an opportunity to re-establish themselves if the election process is delayed and discussions on reforms drag on for too long.
We don’t want to see any more extrajudicial killing: Fakhrul
“So, from a political party's position, I appeal to all wise and respected individuals in society who are talking about reforms not to prolong these discussions. The longer you extend talks on reforms, the deeper the country will fall into crisis. The longer you extend the discussions, the more opportunity the conspirators will have to plot,” he said.
Tarique also vowed that if their party is voted into power, they will try their utmost to fulfill the reform promises they have made to the people.
He said BNP wants to bring about a qualitative change in politics by implementing the 31-point proposals, alongside taking effective steps to keep commodity prices within the people’s buying capacity, ensuring fair prices for agricultural produce, and providing quality and cost-effective education and healthcare services.
Stating that traffic congestion and pollution are two major problems in Dhaka city, Tarique said effective steps must be taken, if BNP returns to power, to improve the traffic situation and air quality.
Democratic forces must stay united to move country forward: Tarique
He said it is not possible for any government alone to resolve all civic problems without the help of the people. “So, city dwellers must remain alert and play a responsible role in overcoming many civic problems. There are many such problems in the country, and we must take measures to address them gradually,” Tarique said.
He said the autocratic regime of Sheikh Hasina destroyed institutions and plundered public money in the name of development, as it was not accountable to the people. “When public representatives are elected through free and fair elections, they remain accountable to the people.”
BNP seeks an election that’ll enable people to choose their govt: Tarique
Tarique said many of BNP’s leaders and activists have endured torture in the struggle to restore people’s rights. "To restore people's rights, accountability must be ensured, and accountability is ensured through elections."
From the national election to local body and institutional polls, he said, they must be held regularly after a stipulated time to ensure good governance.
1 week ago