BNP opens doors to acceptable AL supporters, says Amir Khasru
Awami League supporters who have not hindered Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) activities and are deemed socially acceptable are welcome to join the party, declared Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, a member of BNP’s standing committee.
Speaking as the chief guest at the launch of the BNP membership form distribution and renewal programme at Kazir Dewri Nasiman Bhaban in Chattogram metropolis this afternoon, Chowdhury outlined strict guidelines for new members, emphasising inclusivity with integrity.
Chowdhury clarified that socially unacceptable individuals—those involved in extortion, terrorism, or corruption—are barred from joining, as they could erode the party’s voter base.
“We cannot include Awami League members who might diminish our support if aligned with us. Such elements must be excluded,” he asserted, stressing the need to protect BNP’s credibility.
He inaugurated the programme by filling out his own membership form and distributing books to leaders from various districts, symbolising a fresh organisational push.
The event, chaired by Chittagong Divisional Organizing Secretary Mahbuber Rahman Shamim and conducted by Co-Organising Secretary Barrister Mir Mohammad Helal Uddin, featured special guests including BNP Chairperson’s Adviser Golam Akbar Khandaker, Joint Secretary General Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Annie, Treasurer and Member Form Renewal Committee Member Secretary M Rashiduzzaman Millat, and Central Committee Assistant Organising Secretary VP Harunur Rashid Harun.
The gathering underscored BNP’s intent to revitalise its structure following the ousting of Sheikh Hasina.
Highlighting the initiative’s significance, Chowdhury described it as a “great opportunity” to strengthen BNP, the nation’s largest party, both organisationally and politically.
“Sheikh Hasina’s exit has cleared the path, but we must now fortify our foundation,” he said, noting the choice to conduct renewals in person rather than via mobile platforms to ensure transparency. “This membership drive aims to bring a broader section of the country under BNP’s umbrella, reflecting our status as the leading political force,” he added.
Chowdhury advocated for open, daylight renewals across cities, police stations, and unions, rejecting secretive practices.
“Membership should be visible—men in one line, women in another, just like voters,” he envisioned, promoting accountability. This move aligns with BNP’s strategy to rebuild under Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus’s interim government, leveraging public trust to expand its base while maintaining strict vetting to safeguard its political future.
