Moderator VFD
BNP’s prospective candidates have taken to the field ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections, pressuring the interim government while ramping up election preparations nationwide. Across the country, BNP aspirants are actively engaging with the public and attending events to reorganize local party units. The party’s central command is also providing guidance to streamline these efforts.
The BNP has assured its allied parties of collaboration in the election process. Central BNP leaders have indicated that candidates who contested the 2018 elections, particularly those from the student wing, Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal, will be prioritized. Additionally, former MPs actively involved in the movement against the ruling Awami League may also receive nominations.
“We’ve always been preparing for elections, with updates and changes as needed,” said BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed. BNP did not participate in the 12th parliamentary elections held in January 2024 under the leadership of Sheikh Hasina’s government. The party previously contested the 2018 elections in alliance with Dr. Kamal Hossain’s coalition but boycotted the 2014 elections.
Syed Moazzem Hossain Alal, a member of BNP’s advisory council, mentioned that the party is operating strategically, factoring in multiple variables. “Our chairperson has said BNP will form a national government inclusive of everyone if we win the elections. Allied parties that have stood by us will also be part of this government,” he added, emphasizing that this approach is integral to election planning.
Since losing power in January 2007, many BNP committees have operated from Dhaka. Due to lawsuits, attacks, and harassment, local leaders became inactive after the 2014 elections. However, since August 5, when the political situation began favoring the BNP, the party has started restructuring its committees nationwide. Several district committees, such as those in Magura and Kushtia, have been dissolved, with reorganization efforts continuing in districts like Narayanganj and Gazipur.
After nearly nine years, a new committee has been formed in Barguna, while the convening committee in Khulna has been dissolved. Syed Emran Saleh Prince, BNP’s Joint Secretary General, noted, “We couldn’t carry out organizational activities in most areas over the past 15 years. Now, we are restructuring every unit to prepare for the elections.”
The three key BNP-affiliated organizations—Jubo Dal, Chhatra Dal, and Swechchhasebak Dal—are jointly organizing worker meetings in all districts to convey Tarique Rahman’s directives. Senior leaders from these organizations are coordinating these gatherings through district-level visits, guiding young activists on their roles in the upcoming elections.
Rezaur Rahman, a leader of the Swechchhasebak Dal from a southern upazila, shared that a former BNP MP has launched an extensive public engagement campaign in his constituency. “Our former MP couldn’t visit the area for the past 10 years. Meeting him in Dhaka resulted in attacks by Awami League activists back home. But on August 8, he returned, staying throughout the floods and festivals, which ensured law and order. Now, he is participating in various events and reconnecting with the people,” Rezaur said.
Syed Emran Saleh Prince remarked that many former BNP MPs and ministers could not engage in organizational activities for years due to legal and political constraints. “Thousands of our leaders and activists are still entangled in lawsuits, with many behind bars. We are working to free them so they can resume political activities.”
Prince emphasized that grassroots engagement is central to BNP’s strategy. “Our leaders are actively participating in political, social, and religious programs alongside the people. Every unit is being revitalized to support this effort,” he said.
Selection of Candidates
According to Emran Saleh Prince, the BNP leadership is prioritizing individuals who have maintained connections with activists and stayed active on the streets. However, the party will also consider those who were inactive for valid reasons.
“Our leaders have been instructed to support grassroots activists, address their issues, and strengthen public relations. The party is assessing who contributed during difficult times. For candidate selection, factors like sacrifice, roles over the past 15 years, popularity, and organizational skills will be considered,” he added.
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