BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said political parties cannot contest local government elections using their party symbols under the existing electoral law.
He made the remarks on Monday night while speaking to journalists after a dinner hosted for leaders of BNP’s allies who took part in the simultaneous movement against the previous government.
Responding to a question on local government elections and party nominations, Fakhrul said BNP had not yet held any discussion with other political parties on the matter.
“You know that under the law we have, there is no scope for contesting elections on a party basis,” he said.
He added that discussions on the issue could be held later if necessary, but decisions would be taken through consultations with all stakeholders.
“Since there is a legal obligation, I do not think we need to discuss the matter now. However, we will take decisions in every case through mutual discussions,” Fakhrul said.
At the briefing, the BNP leader also spoke about the current political situation, the government’s performance over the past five months, and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s commitment to implementing the party’s “31-point” reform agenda and the “July Charter”.
Praising the contribution of political parties that joined the anti-government movement, Fakhrul said the sacrifices of those who faced imprisonment, enforced disappearance and killings during the 15-year struggle against authoritarian rule would be remembered by the country.
He said BNP would continue working with all political parties to build a united and democratic Bangladesh.
Fakhrul’s remarks came after a dinner meeting between Tarique Rahman and leaders of political parties and alliances that participated in the simultaneous movement.
