BNP alleges a plot to delay elections by disrupting law and order

BNP senior leader Dr AZM Zahid Hossain on Tuesday alleged that a deliberate plot is underway to delay the upcoming national election by systematically destabilising the law and order situation.

“There’s a clear conspiracy… if law and order deteriorates, it will serve the interests of certain groups,” he told reporters, according to UNB, after inspecting the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh venue ahead of a professionals’ event scheduled for July 21 to mark the first anniversary of the July mass uprising.

Dr Zahid, also a member of BNP’s standing committee, expressed optimism that the election would still take place on time despite such efforts. “Given the way the Chief Adviser and the Election Commission are proceeding, we are hopeful they will honour their commitment to hold the election by mid-February,” he added.

Referring to the recent murder of a scrap trader in Old Dhaka, Zahid said BNP strongly condemns any form of crime or injustice. He cited party Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir’s recent statement clarifying that “crime is crime” and that BNP does not justify any wrongdoing.

“It is not appropriate to politicise crimes or manipulate narratives to shift blame onto any particular party,” he said, adding that no conscientious political actor should support or excuse wrongdoing.

Dr Zahid also criticised those making disparaging remarks about BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman. “We follow the ideals of Shaheed Ziaur Rahman and Khaleda Zia. Under Tarique Rahman’s leadership, the people are seeking a return to democracy. We have no interest in any conspiracy.”

He urged political activists to remain calm, speak truthfully, and avoid hypocrisy.

Reiterating that BNP does not condone mob violence or injustice, he said, “We have always demanded justice, and we do not support or encourage lawlessness.”

Asked about Jamaat-e-Islami’s claim that BNP has been shown a ‘red card’ by the people following the Mitford incident, Zahid declined to respond directly. “Those who make such remarks often do so out of ignorance. Their political maturity and judgment are questionable. Ultimately, the people will decide who deserves a red card or a green one.”

He also dismissed National Citizen Party Convenor Nahid Islam’s allegation that BNP is becoming a ‘protector of Mujibism’. “I saw the reports from Jhalakathi. It’s evident who is facilitating the rehabilitation of Awami League and who is not,” he concluded.