As Bangladesh stands at a juncture ahead of its 2026 parliamentary elections, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has lauded the interim government’s directive to prepare for polls by December 2025, calling it a “praiseworthy” step toward restoring democratic rights.
Speaking as the chief guest at a discussion hosted by the Dhaka Journalists Union (DUJ) and Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ) at the National Press Club on Thursday, Fakhrul framed the upcoming elections as a hard-won victory for the people, rooted in the sacrifices of the July 2024 uprising that ousted the Awami League.
“The people have shed blood for their voting rights,” Fakhrul declared, expressing optimism that a “fair and acceptable” electoral system is within reach.
He emphasised the BNP’s commitment to the July uprising, noting that the party submitted a recommendation letter for the July Charter to the interim government on Wednesday night, signalling respect for the historic movement that toppled Sheikh Hasina’s regime.
“We don’t belittle the uprising; we honour it,” he said, countering critics who claim the BNP obstructs reforms.
Fakhrul’s remarks come amid a delicate balancing act for the BNP, which is positioning itself as a champion of democratic reform while addressing historical grievances.
He highlighted the party’s suffering under the Awami League’s 17-year rule, alleging that 6 million BNP leaders and activists faced false cases and 20,000 were killed. “Denying this reality is closing your eyes to democracy,” he said, urging national unity over division to foster an inclusive, transparent political environment.
The BNP leader also turned attention to pressing geopolitical concerns, particularly the escalating tensions at the Bangladesh-India border. Citing ongoing killings and “push-ins” of Bangladeshi citizens, Fakhrul called for firm negotiations with India, accusing New Delhi of taking the issue lightly.
He further demanded sincere talks to secure Bangladesh’s fair share of transboundary river water, a longstanding point of contention that has strained bilateral ties since Hasina’s exile in India.
The discussion, presided over by DUJ President Md. Shahidul Islam and moderated by General Secretary Khurshid Alam, saw participation from BNP Standing Committee member Dr AZM Zahid Hossain, Advisory Council member Abdus Salam, and Executive Committee member Mainul Islam.
Other attendees included Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General Professor Mia Golam Parwar, Nagorik Oikya President Mahmudur Rahman Manna, National Press Club President Hasan Hafiz, BFUJ Acting President Obaidur Rahman Shahin, and Jugantor Editor Abdul Hye Shikder and Amar Desh Editor Mahmudur Rahman.