Photo: Collected
BNP commenced the New Year on a disappointing note due to its inability to push for upcoming parliamentary elections under a caretaker government. According to insiders within BNP, the anticipated outcomes from the outset of the anti-government movement did not materialize, presenting a setback. This lack of success poses additional hurdles for the party's prospects of initiating any new movements in the future.
However, the BNP leadership maintains that the party remains unified despite these difficulties. Contrary to assumptions that the BNP might crumble following the boycott, it has proven resilient.
In 2023, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) commenced the year with fervor amidst the anti-government movement. Khaleda Zia, the party's chairperson and former prime minister, was suspended by the government through executive order while being unwell. Despite this, BNP sustained its momentum through peaceful meetings, even as acting chairman Tariq Rahman remained outside the country.
The astute BNP leadership mobilised various like-minded political alliances and parties, organizing marches, sit-ins, mass processions, and road movements. Additionally, Western diplomats, particularly those from the US, actively supported the opposition for free and fair elections. The US announcement of a visa policy against those impeding fair elections further boosted the opposition, including the BNP. Consequently, the first half of the year favored the BNP due to its movements and multifaceted diplomatic efforts.
However, the situation shifted in the latter half of the year. On July 29, BNP faced setbacks during a sit-in program at Dhaka's entrances, marked by disorganization and lack of coordination, which weakened the party. A similar scenario unfolded during the Mohasomabesh on October 28, resulting in clashes with the police. Subsequently, despite announcing schedules, BNP-affiliated parties implemented 12 phases of a 24-day blockade and 5 phases of a 6-day hartal with minimal impact due to lax observance.
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) initiated a non-cooperation movement by boycotting the December 20 polls, urging citizens to refrain from cooperating with the government. However, this call didn't yield significant response, leading to BNP's failure to secure victory in elections held under a supposedly neutral administration. The party is now focused on exposing alleged election rigging and one-sidedness, intensifying political activities to demonstrate empty polling stations and purported election manipulation.
As the new year begins, BNP faces deep disappointment, especially with only three days remaining until the 12th National Assembly elections. The party lacks the means to prevent the elections through a robust movement. The foremost challenge for the party this year involves maintaining its integrity while engaging leaders and activists in future programs. Additionally, activists are facing repercussions related to anti-government clashes from the past 15 years, posing a challenge to sustain on-ground movements in the face of such confrontations.
Amidst these difficulties, gathering demands before the elections has proven unattainable for BNP. Furthermore, BNP leaders and activists are grappling with diminished morale, questioning the party's ability to enact meaningful changes post-election and the formation of a new government. Reports indicate discussions held by party members with leaders from several upazilas and districts including Satkhira, Bogra, Narail, and Sylhet, signifying concerns and uncertainties within BNP ranks regarding future strategies and prospects.
Kazi Rawankul Islam Shravan, member of BNP central executive committee and former Chhatra Dal president, told The Daily Messenger, “The party's most significant accomplishment this year is its unity. Despite Khaleda Zia's absence, BNP has cohesively rallied behind Acting Chairman Tariq Rahman, who is currently residing abroad.
Kazi further said that BNP has cemented its position as a party that resonates with the people. He remains hopeful that despite challenges in maintaining unity and public support, the party will achieve positive outcomes whenever the opportunity arises.
Adding to this sentiment, Begum Selima Rahman, a BNP Standing Committee member, told The Daily Messenger, “The party stands united under the guidance of the Acting Chairman.”
She emphasized that politics extends beyond mere power acquisition and that BNP is navigating its course in a democratic manner. Consequently, democratic nations and various organizations are extending their support to BNP's cause.
She further said that people will not tolerate these anarchies anymore and will stand with BNP to fight this autocratic government.
Messenger/Sun Yath
