Bangladesh Nationalist Party-BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said that Tarique Rahman may be announced as the party’s chairman within the next couple of days.
He said, “Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia is no more. This void must be filled.”
Mirza Fakhrul made the remarks while speaking at a view-sharing meeting with local media workers, organized by the Sylhet district and City BNP, at the Windsor Hotel and Resort on Airport Road in Sylhet city on Sunday evening (January 4).
He said, “Our national leader Begum Khaleda Zia historically used to begin her election campaign from Sylhet. We hope this continuity will be maintained this time as well. The people of the country and party leaders and activists expect Tarique Rahman to start his election campaign from Sylhet.”
Responding to a question from journalists regarding the security of BNP candidates in the current political situation, Mirza Fakhrul said, “Our candidates are very conscious and vigilant. They are trying to ensure their own security as much as possible. I believe no untoward incident will occur.”
Asked whether BNP would form an all-party government if it wins a majority in the election, the BNP Secretary General said, “Not an all-party government. We have a clear political declaration that we will form a national government with those political parties with whom we have jointly carried out movements.”
Referring to the country’s recent political situation, he said, “Unfortunately, over the last year following the formation of the interim government, a culture of mob violence and mobocracy has emerged in the country, which is severely damaging the democratic system. Everyone must consciously come forward to overcome this situation. Returning to democracy through a fair and acceptable election is the only solution.”
Regarding the nomination of two candidates in some parliamentary constituencies, Mirza Fakhrul said, “This has occurred in 10 to 12 seats. In some cases, there are concerns about administrative issues such as bank clearance, so alternative candidates have been kept. There will be no problem, and the issues will be resolved quickly.”
The meeting was moderated by Sylhet District BNP President Abdul Qayyum Chowdhury. Among those present were BNP Chairperson’s Adviser Khandaker Abdul Muktadir, Ariful Haque Chowdhury, M A Malik, Enamul Haque Chowdhury, Central Joint Organizing Secretary Miftah Siddiqui, City BNP Acting President Rezaul Hasan Qays Lodi, District BNP General Secretary Emran Ahmed Chowdhury, Metropolitan BNP General Secretary Imdad Hossain Chowdhury and other district and metropolitan leaders.
Earlier in the afternoon, Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir was warmly welcomed by party leaders and activists upon his arrival at Sylhet Osmani International Airport.
Later, he visited the shrines of Hazrat Shahjalal (RA) and Hazrat Shahparan (RA).
Later, after the exchange of views, he left Sylhet for Dhaka. Press Release