BNP to take to the streets in February ahead of elections by the end of the year

Before Ramadan, the BNP plans to hold rallies in the capital and district towns nationwide, according to sources at a BNP standing committee meeting held last night. The party will also launch public engagement programs across the country starting in mid-February to gather support, said several standing committee members.

BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman participated in the meeting via video link. Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, a committee member, stated that the BNP would reach the public through its initiatives.

Salahuddin Ahmed, another committee member, speaking at a discussion at the Jatiya Press Club yesterday, said, "We are planning a movement to correct the interim government's mistakes and ensure the establishment of a democratically elected government."

The party leaders believe that the government should be steered in the right direction and emphasized that if the national election is delayed, logical explanations are needed. Insiders reveal that the movement will unfold in two phases: the first will focus on rallies protesting the rising prices, and the second will aim at restoring democracy through free and fair elections.

The BNP is also preparing a declaration about the July mass uprising, which will reflect the principles of the 1972 Constitution, according to a party leader.

Leaders within the BNP argue that the imposition of VAT and customs duties on certain goods has exacerbated the price hike of essential commodities. 

"Reform commissions submitted their reports to the government about two weeks ago, but since then, there has been little discussion with political parties, social organizations, or experts," a leader stated.

The government needs to identify proposals on which a consensus can be reached with political parties, social groups, and experts, the leader added. "There are also proposals that do not align with Bangladesh’s political and social culture."

Regarding constitutional reform proposals, Salahuddin Ahmed expressed concerns about linking the July uprising to the 1971 Liberation War. He also criticized the Awami League for crimes against humanity, asserting that the people should decide whether the party should participate in the election.

He called for trials of Sheikh Hasina and other AL leaders whose actions led to the deaths of many people. "Both individuals and the organization must face trial," he said, highlighting the interim government's failure to prioritize the trial of the AL as an organization.

He pointed out that there had been talks of amending the International Crimes Tribunal Act to prosecute the AL, but the government has since backtracked. Some advisers have expressed support for the AL facing trial, but no action has been taken.

Salahuddin questioned whether the Awami League would be allowed to participate in the elections, stating that the Election Commission would announce the schedule, and those registered would be able to take part.

He also commented on a new party using government resources to win elections, noting that while he welcomed the efforts of student leaders to form a new party, these factors needed to be considered properly.