Describing BNP as a party of the masses, its National Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed stated: “We (BNP) are neither rightist nor leftist. We follow Bangladesh’s path. We believe in moderation.”
He made these remarks during a conversation with journalists at his Gulshan residence on Thursday.
When asked whether BNP is considering alliances ahead of upcoming elections, the senior leader elaborated: “BNP believes in centrist politics. That’s why we’re talking to all political parties, forces and public representatives engaged in politics. As a people’s party, we want dialogue with everyone.”
Emphasising his desire for political harmony, Salahuddin noted: “Though parties have ideological differences, we want to create an environment where all can unite for national interests. This is why we’re engaging with all political streams.”
Regarding talks with Islamist parties, he commented: “They represent a segment of Bangladesh’s politics. Over 90% of Bangladeshis are Muslim. Even without political backing, they enjoy public sympathy.”
Asserting constitutional limits, he added: “No law against Quran-Sunnah can be enacted here. Both they and we agree on this. However, democratic parliaments sometimes legislate through compromise after discussions.”
Highlighting legislative challenges, he observed: “Laws made through consensus are easily implementable, whereas those disregarding public sentiment face difficulties.”
On the Election Commission, Salahuddin termed its formation as “a major reform achieved through inclusive consultation.”
He characterised the chief adviser’s recent letter to EC as “the most significant development of the past year,” explaining: “The Commission awaited this official communication. The nation waited. We waited. The chief adviser wanted visible progress in governance reforms and judicial processes before taking this step – something we’d previously discussed. Finally, he’s satisfied.”