Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) acting chairman Tarique Rahman has warned that a coordinated smear campaign is underway to prevent his party’s electoral victory, even after the fall of fascism in Bangladesh.
He added, “The deposed autocrat had established fascism in the country solely to ensure BNP’s defeat. During that regime, the entire electoral system was destroyed.
“It is alarming that even now, after the defeat of fascism, coordinated campaigns and tactics are resurfacing to block BNP’s victory.”
He made the remarks on Sunday while virtually addressing the launch of an online payment gateway for BNP’s expatriate members, held at a hotel in Gulshan.
Tarique said as long as those who believe in the ideology of Bangladeshi nationalism remain united, BNP cannot be alienated from the people.
He pointed out, “During the fallen autocrat’s rule, people had lost interest in voting. Even under the interim government, questions are being raised about whether the election will be held on schedule. Such doubts should not have arisen.
“The uncertainty surrounding the polls could endanger the path of democratic transition.”
The BNP leader added that his party had made the highest level of concessions from the beginning to uphold anti-fascist national unity.
“We have chosen the path of dialogue with democratic parties and extended cooperation to the interim government. Yet, new conditions are being added one after another, creating fresh obstacles to democracy. We must stay vigilant about the consequences,” he said.
Tarique then said, “The BNP had completed almost all preparations for the upcoming February election. The nomination process for BNP’s party and alliance candidates in all 300 constituencies is nearing completion.”
“As a popular, people-oriented party, BNP has multiple qualified candidates in every constituency. However, not all will receive nominations. The BNP will also support candidates from other parties who stood with us in the anti-fascist movement. But, some BNP aspirants may be left out.”
Calling on party leaders and activists to accept this reality, Tarique said, “For the sake of the nation and the people, please accept it. The party’s decision will be final, and the names of BNP-nominated candidates will be announced gradually.”
Cautioning his followers, he said, “Hidden autocrats are lurking around you. Do not create internal divisions that could give the opposition an advantage.”
Tarique said that since its inception, BNP had been a target of both domestic and international conspiracies.
“But due to the unwavering support of pro-democracy citizens, the conspirators have always failed. The BNP has long remained a symbol of public trust and will continue to uphold that legacy,” he concluded.
