As BNP gears up for elections, a new political entity is emerging from the remnants of the 2024 uprising. However, internal divisions have already surfaced within the Jatiya Nagorik Committee, the group spearheading this initiative.

Bangladesh’s political scene remains in flux as the country braces for the upcoming national elections. The opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) recently held an extended meeting to strategise its electoral approach and reinforce party discipline. Party Chairperson Khaleda Zia, addressing the gathering virtually, warned against “fascist collaborators” undermining democratic progress. With BNP’s grassroots leaders actively involved in discussions, the party seeks to devise a roadmap for the future while navigating internal discipline challenges and external political pressures.

At the extended meeting, held adjacent to the LD Hall of the National Parliament building, Khaleda Zia emphasised the necessity of national unity. She called upon party leaders and activists to align with the people in resisting conspiracies aimed at derailing democratic gains.

“The people of Bangladesh, especially the youth, are eagerly awaiting a positive democratic transformation,” she asserted, urging BNP members to set aside personal differences and work toward a greater national good.

Zia also invoked the legacy of BNP’s founder, the late President Ziaur Rahman, encouraging members to honor past sacrifices by maintaining party discipline and unity. Her statements reinforced the BNP’s narrative of being the defender of democratic values in the country.

BNP’s Extended Meeting: Key Focus Areas

The extended meeting, which drew thousands of leaders from across the country, focused on critical political issues, including post-August 5 developments, the upcoming 13th parliamentary election, and party discipline. Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, who joined virtually, presided over the event, while BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and senior leadership were present.

A senior BNP leader, speaking anonymously, emphasised that the grassroots members’ voices would be central in shaping the party’s election strategy. He noted concerns about internal indiscipline and the party’s approach to the next national election. The meeting also highlighted BNP’s stance on election timing, rejecting any potential delays under the guise of reforms.

Nomination and Electoral Strategy

BNP’s leadership reiterated that nominations for the upcoming elections would be granted to candidates who actively participated in past movements and contributed to the party’s cause. The meeting provided a platform for grassroots leaders to share their views on potential candidates, their local influence, and their commitment to BNP’s objectives.

Standing Committee member Iqbal Hasan Mahmud underscored the significance of grassroots involvement in election preparations. “These leaders have firsthand knowledge of local political dynamics and public sentiments. Their input is essential for assessing the party’s strength and shaping future strategies,” he said.

Party insiders suggest that BNP will intensify street campaigns if any external interference in the election timeline occurs. The meeting also featured discussions on strengthening BNP’s local presence and enhancing coordination with allied parties.

Several grassroots leaders were also invited to the meet, reflecting the BNP’s efforts to engage with its grassroots and recalibrate its political strategy based on local insights. The grassroots leaders expressed their perspectives on BNP’s challenges and opportunities:

• Zakir Hossain Bablu, convener of Mymensingh district BNP (south), emphasised the importance of assessing BNP’s local politics and strengthening organisational activities.
• SM Shafiqul Alam Mona, president of Khulna metropolitan BNP, noted that discussions on enhancing party structures ahead of the national election were a priority.
• Abdul Quiyum Chowdhury, president of Sylhet district BNP, highlighted the need for guidance from senior leaders to navigate political hurdles.
• Mamun Mahmud, Narayanganj district BNP Convener, stressed the importance of direct communication with the party’s high command regarding local political realities.

Political Realignments and the Rise of a New Party

As BNP gears up for elections, a new political entity is emerging from the remnants of the 2024 uprising. However, internal divisions have already surfaced within the Jatiya Nagorik Committee, the group spearheading this initiative.

Several former leaders of Islami Chhatra Shibir, the student wing of Jamaat-e-Islami, announced their withdrawal from the new party over leadership disputes. Among them, Ali Ahsan Zonaed and Rafe Salman Rifat publicly distanced themselves, citing concerns over the selection process. Zonaed criticised the leadership structure as “neither democratic nor inclusive,” while Rafe remarked that politics is a “long race” requiring patience and strategic endurance.

These resignations came amid a controversy regarding the involvement of former Shibir leaders in the new party’s leadership. Disagreements over key positions led to delays in the party’s launch, initially scheduled for February 28. The Nagorik Committee faced internal conflicts over who would assume the crucial post of member secretary, with different factions pushing for their preferred candidates.

Despite these setbacks, the new party is set to be unveiled at a rally on Manik Mia Avenue, where its name will be officially disclosed. The party leadership structure is still being negotiated, with potential roles such as chief coordinator, senior joint convener, and spokesperson under discussion. Observers believe that this new political force could reshape Bangladesh’s opposition landscape.

BNP’s Outreach to Youth Activists

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, addressing a book unveiling event at the Ekushey Book Fair, urged the younger generation — especially those who participated in the July uprising — to act responsibly in ensuring democratic change.

“Those who were part of the movement have a responsibility to act with care and responsibility,” he said. He emphasised the importance of constructive dialogue and unity in securing an acceptable and neutral election by December.

BNP has been increasingly reaching out to young activists and university students, recognising their role as a crucial voter base. With social media playing an instrumental role in political mobilisation, BNP leaders are exploring ways to harness digital platforms to engage with the youth. The party has also launched online campaigns to highlight its policies and expose alleged government misdeeds.

The Role of International Observers and Election Fairness

As Bangladesh moves toward elections, international stakeholders are closely monitoring the political landscape. The United Nations, European Union, and other global organisations have called for free, fair, and inclusive elections. BNP has sought international attention on what it describes as electoral manipulation by the ruling party.

While the ruling Awami League insists that the election will be conducted transparently, opposition parties argue that state machinery is being used to suppress dissent. BNP leaders have urged foreign observers to scrutinise election proceedings, emphasising the need for neutrality in election oversight.

The Road Ahead

As Bangladesh approaches the national elections, the political climate remains charged with uncertainty. BNP’s extended meeting has reaffirmed its commitment to grassroots engagement, while the emergence of a new political party adds another layer of complexity to the opposition landscape.

Key challenges include maintaining party unity, ensuring fair electoral conditions, and countering potential state or external interference. Meanwhile, internal disputes within the Nagorik Committee highlight the difficulties of forming a cohesive alternative force in the political arena.

The role of digital platforms in political activism, the engagement of youth in democratic processes, and the influence of international pressure will also shape Bangladesh’s electoral future. With elections expected in December, the coming months will be crucial for Bangladesh’s democratic trajectory. BNP’s ability to mobilise its base, forge alliances, and maintain strategic discipline will determine its effectiveness in the political battle ahead.