Dhaka,   Sunday 19 October 2025

HSIA fire fully under control

HSIA fire fully under control

At least 37 firefighting units are battling a fire that broke out in the cargo area of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka on Saturday afternoon, prompting the suspension of all flight operations and triggering a large-scale emergency response. The fire was first reported around 2:15pm, according to Kawser Mahmud, spokesperson for both Biman Bangladesh Airlines and the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB). He said that firefighting units from the airport, the Bangladesh Army, the Bangladesh Air Force, and other relevant agencies responded swiftly and launched a coordinated effort to contain the fire. Mahmud urged the public to remain calm and vigilant, assuring that a detailed report would be shared once the situation is fully under control. Talha bin Jasim, an officer from the Fire Service and Civil Defence Headquarters, told reporters that they received news of the fire around 2:30pm. “Thirty-seven fire units are currently working at the scene,” he said. He added that the organization’s Director General, Brigadier General Muhammad Jahed Kamal, is monitoring the situation. Airport Executive Director SM Ragib Samad said: “We are working together with all relevant forces, including the Air Force fire unit. Further details will be shared later.” Currently, a total of 37 units from 13 fire stations are working to bring the fire under control, with additional support from the Bangladesh Navy, while two platoons of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) have been deployed to assist with rescue efforts. As a precautionary measure, authorities have suspended all flight operations at the airport. Aircraft stationed in hangars are being relocated to prevent potential damage, as the fire continues to burn in the cargo village area. The disruption has forced several inbound and outbound flights to divert or delay. Airport sources confirmed that Batik Air flight OD-163 from Dhaka to Kuala Lumpur and Indigo flight 6E-1116 from Dhaka to Mumbai are currently waiting on the taxiway. Meanwhile, the US-Bangla Airlines flight from Bangkok and Air Arabia’s flight from Sharjah have landed in Chittagong. Indigo’s flight from Delhi has been diverted to Kolkata, while Cathay Pacific’s flight from Hong Kong is circling in the air, unable to land. A Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight from Saidpur and a US-Bangla Airlines flight from Chittagong have both diverted back to Chittagong instead of landing in Dhaka. Emergency teams remain on-site as efforts continue to bring the situation under full control. Authorities are closely monitoring the fire and working to restore normal operations as soon as conditions permit.

EU hails ’July Charter’ as milestone in Bangladesh’s political transition

EU hails ’July Charter’ as milestone in Bangladesh’s political transition

European Union (EU) Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller has described the signing of the "July Charter" as a significant step toward political consensus and reform in Bangladesh, as the country advances toward national elections slated for early 2026. "I was delighted to join the signing ceremony of the July Charter, a document which sets out broad political consensus on fundamental reforms," Ambassador Miller wrote in a Facebook post following the event on Friday. He said the signing marked "an important moment in the country`s political transition, demonstrating unity of purpose as Bangladesh moves towards elections in early 2026." The July National Charter 2025, signed on Friday, brought together 25 political parties including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami. The EU envoy`s presence at the event reflected the European Union`s continued commitment to engaging with Bangladesh in its democratic journey and governance reforms. The EU has maintained a long-standing partnership with Bangladesh in promoting good governance and institutional accountability. In recent months, the EU has reiterated its support for free, fair, and participatory elections in Bangladesh. This includes offering technical cooperation and the possibility of deploying election observation missions, aligned with the EU`s broader commitment to democratic practices and sustainable development.

BNP has no dilemma over PM post: Fakhrul

BNP has no dilemma over PM post: Fakhrul

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said the party is in no dilemma over conferring the premiership if it is elected to power. In an exclusive interview with Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) at his Gulshan residence here recently, he detailed his experience about his recent New York tour accompanying Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus and his views regarding world perception about post uprising Bangladesh, existing political challenges. Alamgir also spoke about the BNP preparedness for the planned February elections touching upon issues of party manifesto, candidate selection and its possible alliance with political parties. The BNP secretary general simultaneously spoke about the party`s stance and views on the July Charter and referendum, foreign relations issues and particularly ties with India and now disbanded Awami League, BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia`s electioneering and return of party`s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir during an exclusive interview with Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) at his Gulshan residence in the capital. Photo: BSS BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir during an exclusive interview with Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) at his Gulshan residence in the capital. Photo: BSS Following is the translated transcript of the interview by BSS Staff Reporter Rumana Jaman. BSS: Recently, you joined the United Nations General Assembly session as a member of the Chief Adviser`s delegation. How was the experience? Mirza Fakhrul: It was my first experience of going to the United Nations. Undoubtedly, it was a very exciting one. I was also happy as I represented the government and Bangladesh and the deliberation of ours, which was the Chief Adviser`s statement, was fairly good and got good coverage. Besides, we held several meetings on the sidelines in various capacities. Later, we met with expatriate Bangladeshis living there; we talked to them, and they shared their views as well. Overall, I would say our visit was a success. BSS: How the global community views the new Bangladesh that emerged through the mass uprising of `24? Mirza Fakhrul: At present, all countries - particularly the Western ones - have developed a great deal of interest in Bangladesh. They are keen to invest here. They are waiting for an election to be held and for an elected government to take office, after which they plan to invest here. Besides, other countries too are showing considerable interest in Bangladesh. Especially, third-world countries have shown immense interest. Moreover, our neighboring countries and those in the Middle East are also quite interested. Overall, following this student-people uprising, Bangladesh drew the entire world`s attention. BSS: A massive mass uprising has taken place in Bangladesh. How is the international community viewing this development? Mirza Fakhrul: The devotion and eagerness of the Bangladeshi people to democracy - and the fact that common people are willing to sacrifice their lives for it - have undoubtedly astonished the world. Simultaneously the 2024 uprising has earned Bangladesh a distinct place of honor in the world. BSS: The national election in Bangladesh is scheduled for February next year. What kind of support do you expect to receive from the international community? Mirza Fakhrul: The organizations that are generally concerned with elections - for instance, the European Union - have already announced that they will send observers. Similarly, the United Nations has also shown significant interest in this election and is eager to send observers. The United Kingdom will send observers as well. Everyone in the world who believes in democracy are now keenly interested in Bangladesh`s upcoming election because they saw the previous elections. That is why their interest has intensified. They were not even allowed to send observers during previous elections. But now, the Election Commission is granting them full access and permission to send observer teams. BSS: There is widespread public speculation if the elections will actually take place in February. Does the BNP share any such doubts or concerns? Mirza Fakhrul: There is no reason to doubt on that matter. The commitment made by the head of government, the government itself, and the way the Election Commission is taking preparations, we are confident that the election will definitely take place. BSS: How much confidence does your party have in the Election Commission? Mirza Fakhrul: We have enough confidence. Based on what we saw so far, I believe they are capable of conducting a neutral and fair election. BSS: Since the election is approaching, the BNP must also be preparing. However, talks are there that compared to other political parties the BNP is lagging behind in its preparations. Is that true? Mirza Fakhrul: Not at all. This is mere a propaganda against BNP - such as, "BNP is not ready," "BNP has no candidates," or "it has not even begun its campaign". None of these are true. The BNP has always ready for elections. Even during period of fascism, BNP took part in elections. The party contested the 2018 election, and now it is far better prepared. BNP leaders and activists at grassroots are far more alert and active. They are working among the people for the party. BSS: When BNP candidates are expected to launch electioneering? Mirza Fakhrul: The candidates have almost launched it. Those who intend to contest the polls as potential candidates are already in the field. Once the party nominations are finalized, they will officially begin campaigning, but by now, they are doing ground works. BSS: What factors will matter most in candidate selection this time? Mirza Fakhrul: Primarily, the ones who were involved in the BNP`s movements and struggles over the past 17 years, including the mass movement of 2024 will be evaluated. Simultaneously they must have good organizational standing and public image. These are the individuals who will undoubtedly be prioritized as candidates in the upcoming election. BSS: Will there be any surprises in the candidate selection this time? Mirza Fakhrul: As far as "surprise" is concerned, the young generation will get a bit more priority this time since they are now much more active. Many of our old-generation leaders are physically unwell, and may not wish to contest the polls. Some professionals will come. Women will also get considerable priority. BSS: There are discussions about possible electoral alliances. Is BNP forming any such alliance? Have you had any talks with other parties? Mirza Fakhrul: So far, we haven`t held any specific discussions with anyone regarding an electoral alliance. However, we have announced that after the election, we will form a government together with those who stood with us during the movement. Whether they will be part of it or not is their decision. At this moment, we have no active initiative over an electoral alliance. BSS: So, there will be no electoral alliance at all? Mirza Fakhrul: No decision has been made at this moment. BSS: What will BNP`s election manifesto look like this time? Will there be any special addition beyond BNP`s 31-point? Mirza Fakhrul: Essentially, the 31 points will form the basis of our election manifesto. Alongside that, economic issues will receive highest priorities. Particularly, unemployment - which we believe is the biggest problem right now - will be at the centre. So, our focus will be on how to reduce unemployment, create more employment opportunities, and increase investment. These issues will be prominently reflected in the manifesto. BSS: Some political parties could not reach a consensus on the July Charter. Will this create a crisis in the future? Mirza Fakhrul: No, not really. The fact of the matter is the consensus among all parties is not likely to happen. Different political parties will naturally have different opinions. The proposals that will be developed by considering all those views will eventually go to the people. In the election, the people will decide whom they will accept and elect to power. They (elected ones) will then take responsibility to run the state and govern accordingly. What we have emphasized is that we do not want to go beyond the Constitution. Within the constitutional framework, we want to amend what is not suitable for us and bring new ideas. BSS: The issue of legal basis of the Charter was raised and special orders and referendum before the election for that were suggested. How do you view this? Mirza Fakhrul: A referendum on the day of the election might be possible, but a referendum before the election - we cannot accept that. That cannot happen. BSS: What are main challenges for Bangladesh at this moment? If the BNP comes to power through people`s vote, how will it deal with those challenges? Mirza Fakhrul: The main challenge is to stabilize Bangladesh`s economy. The previous government destroyed the economy - they ruined the banking system, engaging in massive corruption and looting, siphoned off money abroad, and closed the doors for investment. The current interim government brought under control the situation to some extent. We want to improve it further. We will definitely try to draw high volume investments reviewing the challenges with more precision. BSS: Beyond BNP, NCP and Jamaat-e-Islami are maintaining a rather rigid stance over their demands including introduction of PR system. Where the solution lies? Mirza Fakhrul: It`s the character of political parties to make election-related demands. However, some of their demands are difficult to resolve through discussion because we have strong objections to certain points. For instance, regarding the PR system - our position is very clear: the people of our country are not accustomed to the PR system and are not prepared for it. Therefore, we are not willing to accept it. BSS: If the BNP comes to power, how will it keep united the forces behind the 2024 mass uprising? Mirza Fakhrul: The forces of the 2024 mass uprising - those who took part in the movement - will remain within the democratic framework. They will stay united; that`s natural. Moreover, if we continue the practice of democracy, it will sustain itself. If I maintain democratic practices, uphold the principles of democracy, and develop the institutions, then we can all work together in unity. BSS: Once BNP had a strong friendship or alliance with Jamaat-e-Islami. What has caused the distance now? Mirza Fakhrul: In politics, there is no such thing as permanent alliances or permanent friendships. Circumstances decide who will be your political ally and who will not. Alliances and coalitions are formed, especially during elections. That existed before. At this moment, it`s not visible. When opinions differ, such situations may arise - that`s not abnormal. And where`s the bad relationship? BNP maintains with Jamaat the same kind of relationship that one political party should have with another. BSS: Jamaat-e-Islami has been talking about forming an alliance with several other political parties. Does the BNP consider this a challenge? Mirza Fakhrul: We don`t consider any of it a challenge. We believe that in this election we`ll achieve a landslide victory, Insha`Allah. Because we have been struggling and fighting for 15 long years. In the past, as a political party, we have a positive record of governing the country. It was we who brought reforms to this country. We transformed the one-party system into a multi-party one. We shifted the system from a presidential to a parliamentary form of government. We developed the export of manpower and the garment industry. We brought about fundamental changes in both the economy and politics through which the country has progressed. In promoting women`s education, Madam Zia`s (Begum Khaleda Zia) contribution is undeniable - that took place during our time. In primary education, as well, the development came under our government. Most of the new hospitals in the health sector were built during Madam`s tenure - not after. We have an all-plus record; (positive record), our score is much higher. BSS: How realistic is the BNP`s pledge to form a national government? Mirza Fakhrul: That will depend on opinions of the parties participating in the election after it is held. However, we still stick to our commitment. BSS: The activities of Awami League are banned - we all know that. Do you see any possibility of their participation in the election? Mirza Fakhrul: I am not willing to comment on that right now. Because whether they can participate depends on whether the ban imposed on them is withdrawn. But I think the possibility of that withdrawal is slim. BSS: What are your thoughts on the trial process of the Awami League and its political future? Mirza Fakhrul: Awami League has dissolved itself. I don`t think they have any space left in the minds of the general people. So, their return to politics won`t be easy. And as a party involved in mass killing, they must be brought to justice and be tried seriously. BSS: There are talks that the trial process against the Awami League is progressing slowly. What do you think? Mirza Fakhrul: No, not at all. I think the interim government is doing as much as possible. They`ve even increased the number of tribunals, so the trial is proceeding quickly. Witness testimonies are underway, and the process seems to be nearing completion. BSS: You are frequently meeting with diplomats. What kind of messages are international organizations conveying to the BNP? Mirza Fakhrul: They want a fair election. They want the BNP to participate fully in the election. They also want to see how far the commitments BNP has made are suitable to in practicing democracy. Particularly, they have some focal areas - the Western world wants to see greater participation of women. Simultaneously they put strong emphasis on human rights issues. They also take a firm stand on ensuring labour rights. International organisations (also) view human rights as a major concern. BSS: India remains a relevant issue in Bangladesh`s politics. What is the BNP`s current relationship with India? Mirza Fakhrul: We have always wanted a functional relationship with India - one based on honesty and good neighbourliness. That means India should take positive steps to resolve existing issues with us. For example, the water-sharing problem remains unresolved. Border killings must stop - we need to be more proactive about that. We will also address the trade imbalance in business and commerce. The problem is India`s interference. We will seek India not to in Bangladesh`s internal politics. BSS: If the BNP comes to power through the people`s vote, will it take any step to control external influence on Bangladesh? Mirza Fakhrul: If we assume responsibility for running the state, it will be our duty to maintain good relations with neighboring countries while expanding trade and economic ties. We will take all necessary initiatives to build and sustain those relationships. BSS: The other night, BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia suddenly went to offer ziarat at her husband`s grave. Did that carry any special message? Mirza Fakhrul: Our leader hadn`t offered ziarat there for nearly 18 years. Now that she feels a bit better, her doctor advised her to go outside occasionally. That`s why, as soon as she felt slightly improved, she first went to pay respects at the grave of the Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman. BSS: Will Begum Khaleda Zia take part in election campaigning? Mirza Fakhrul: That entirely depends on her health. Since she`s our Chairperson and a legendary leader, if she joins the campaign, it would be a huge positive boost for the BNP. BSS: When BNP`s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman is expected to return to the country? Is there any security concern? Mirza Fakhrul: I don`t see any security threat, but ensuring his security is one of our party`s demands. Besides, there are some logistical matters to arrange - housing, for instance, since he currently has no home here. (Acting) Chairman of a party needs a residence. At the same time, his office must be set up, and his transport arrangements are being made. It`s taking some time, but everything is nearly ready - he`s coming very soon. BSS: Who will be the Prime Minister if the BNP comes to power? Mirza Fakhrul: If our Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia remains well physically and fit to work, she will be the Prime Minister. In her absence, our Chairman Tarique Rahman will take that role. There`s no disagreement or confusion about that.

IMF slashes Bangladesh growth forecast to 4.9% for FY26

SAT Desk The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has lowered Bangladesh`s economic growth projection for FY26 to 4.9% from the previous 5.4% made in June. In its latest World Economic Outlook for October 2025 released Tuesday, the multilateral lender also projected that the rate of inflation would stand at 8.7% in FY26, an upward revision of its June projection of 6.2%. Earlier on October 7, the World Bank in its latest Bangladesh Development Update stated that the country was expected to maintain an upward growth trajectory in the medium term, but urgent reforms were critical to sustaining growth and job creation, especially for youth and women. It projected that gross domestic product (GDP) growth would rise to 4.8% in FY26 from 4% in FY25, and to 6.3% in FY27. The IMF in its Tuesday`s release also downgraded the global growth forecast by 0.2 percentage points from its forecast a year earlier. It projected global growth at 3.2% for this year and 3.1% for next year, a cumulative downgrade of 0.2 percentage points. Global growth is holding steady despite major policy shifts. The increase in tariffs and its effect has been smaller than expected so far. This is thanks to new trade deals, multiple exemptions, and the private sector`s agility in rerouting supply chains, said IMF`s chief economist Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas, unveiling the outlook. Yet, beneath the steady surface, complex forces are at work, he warned. Gourinchas said easy financial conditions and a weaker dollar, fiscal stimulus in some major countries, and surging artificial intelligence investment were all shaping activity and inflation dynamics.SAT Desk The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has lowered Bangladesh`s economic growth projection for FY26 to 4.9% from the previous 5.4% made in June. In its latest World Economic Outlook for October 2025 released Tuesday, the multilateral lender also projected that the rate of inflation would stand at 8.7% in FY26, an upward revision of its June projection of 6.2%. Earlier on October 7, the World Bank in its latest Bangladesh Development Update stated that the country was expected to maintain an upward growth trajectory in the medium term, but urgent reforms were critical to sustaining growth and job creation, especially for youth and women. It projected that gross domestic product (GDP) growth would rise to 4.8% in FY26 from 4% in FY25, and to 6.3% in FY27. The IMF in its Tuesday`s release also downgraded the global growth forecast by 0.2 percentage points from its forecast a year earlier. It projected global growth at 3.2% for this year and 3.1% for next year, a cumulative downgrade of 0.2 percentage points. Global growth is holding steady despite major policy shifts. The increase in tariffs and its effect has been smaller than expected so far. This is thanks to new trade deals, multiple exemptions, and the private sector`s agility in rerouting supply chains, said IMF`s chief economist Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas, unveiling the outlook. Yet, beneath the steady surface, complex forces are at work, he warned. Gourinchas said easy financial conditions and a weaker dollar, fiscal stimulus in some major countries, and surging artificial intelligence investment were all shaping activity and inflation dynamics.

MPO teachers block Shahbagh, demand increase in rent allowance 

Staff Correspondent, Dhaka Monthly pay order (MPO)-registered teachers from private educational institutions, protesting for an increase in house rent allowance, blockaded Shahbagh intersection in Dhaka on Wednesday after spending the night at Dhaka`s Central Shaheed Minar. Police had earlier stopped the teachers in front of the National Museum. The protesters set out towards Shahbagh around 1:45pm, though they had originally planned to begin the blockade around noon. Under the leadership of Principal Delawar Hossain Azizi, member secretary of the “Coalition Aspiring for Nationalization of MPO-enrolled Education,” the teachers aimed to occupy the Shahbagh intersection to press their demands. One protester said they would remain at Shahbagh until their demands were met, while another said they would stay until office hours ended, then return to Shaheed Minar. The teachers are demanding a 20% increase in house rent allowance, a Tk1,500 medical allowance, and a 75% festival bonus for employees. While sit-ins continue centrally in Dhaka, work stoppages are ongoing at educational institutions across the country. They also claimed that on Sunday, police used force during a sit-in in front of the National Press Club, prompting them to relocate to the Shaheed Minar. Police had again stopped the teachers on Tuesday during a “March to Secretariat” at the High Court Mazar Gate. Principal Delawar Hossain Azizi said: “We will blockade Shahbagh on Wednesday. Teachers across the country will observe a work stoppage, keeping classroom teaching suspended. No teacher will participate in classroom activities until a notification is issued.”

Let’s hold election to save people: Fakhrul

Staff Correspondent, Dhaka Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Wednesday called upon all not to create further divisions, raising the demands for a referendum and PR, rather than to help hold the upcoming election to save the countrymen. "Let`s hold the election quickly to save the people," he said while exchanging views with the people of his parliamentary seat, Thakurgaon-1, at Goreya Union Parishad in the district. Mirza Fakhrul called upon all the political parties not to create divisions or make a movement over the issues of the referendum and proportionate representatives (PR). "Debate can be held over the PR in the next parliament," he said. The Senior BNP leader said those who are demonstrating on the roads over the issues do not have good intentions. "They want to foil the election," he said. Mirza Fakrul called upon all to extend wholehearted cooperation to hold the next election, saying, "All want to cast their votes. Please help to do the election, and let`s hope there will be an elected parliament where these issues will be discussed." He reiterated his party`s commitment to create jobs for one crore people. Mirza Fakhrul said they don`t want to do the politics of vengeance. "We don`t want any division among the Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, and Christians. We want to live together. No more division, much damage has already occurred. We want no more damage. We want to live in amity and friendship," he said. He has reminded us that they are all working to build the country in a beautiful manner. The BNP leader said the election will be held and people will cast their votes to choose their desired representatives. "Make sure that there will be no division," he said. The BNP Secretary General said the July Charter will be signed with the consent of those who agreed to sign it. "The July Charter is like installing a metal tin in the house. The house needs to be hinged. The politics of the country needs to be reformed. So, we are making reforms," he said. The reform proposal that all have agreed upon will be signed, and those that are not agreed upon will have to go to the people for their support, he opined. Mirza Fakhrul has been roaming around his constituency to drum up public support in favour of the symbol Sheaf of Paddy in the upcoming general election since Tuesday. Thakurgaon district BNP General Secretary Poigam Ali, Sadar Upazila General Secretary Mahbub Hossain Tuhin, and hundreds of leaders and activists of the BNP and its affiliated organizations were present.

All political parties to sign July Charter, hopes Asif Nazrul

Staff Correspondent, Dhaka Law Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul on Wednesday said that all political parties participated sincerely in the discussions on the July Charter and are expected to sign the document in the same spirit. “I think all political parties have participated in this discussion with dedication. I do not know what they will do. But I believe, as a continuation of this dedication, they will sign the July Charter. I believe everyone will sign it,” he said while talking to reporters at the Secretariat. Talking about the upcoming national parliamentary election, the Law Adviser said: “Whenever there is an interim government, such concerns over elections naturally arise. On behalf of the government, I firmly said we are committed to holding the election in the first half of February. There is no room for second thoughts—not even in passing conversation.” Mentioning the separate secretariat for the Supreme Court, the adviser said the ministry will submit a proposal to the Advisory Council within the next few weeks to establish a separate secretariat for the Supreme Court. “This has been one of the key recommendations of the Judicial Reform Commission. We’ve done substantial work on this issue. There are some areas of differing opinion that still need to be discussed,” he said. The proposal will be placed before the Council of Advisers in the coming weeks, on behalf of the ministry, and if the council sees merit in it, it will be approved, he said, adding: “I do believe this government will be able to establish the Supreme Court Secretariat during its term.” Dr Nazrul also commented on the evolving political climate, saying that criticism and threats directed at advisers by political parties and groups reflect a shift from previous practices.

Header Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Header Advertisement
Proportional electoral system not possible in Bangladesh: Fakhrul

Proportional electoral system not possible in Bangladesh: Fakhrul

Staff Correspondent, Dhaka The proportional electoral system, which has come in the spotlight amid discussions of constitutional reform, is not possible in the context of Bangladesh, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul said today (13 November). Speaking at a press conference at his residence in Thakurgaon`s Kalibari, he said, "We have rejected this electoral system. This system is not possible in the context of the country." Bangladesh currently uses the First Past the Post, or FPTP, system, where the candidate with the highest votes in an electoral constituency wins. The other system is the Proportional Representation system, where there are no constituency-based candidates. Voters cast their votes for party symbols, and the number of seats a party receives in parliament is determined in proportion to the percentage of votes it secures. At the conference, Fakrhul also urged for patience and unity among the people following AL`s "successful attempts to create divisions". "We want a united nation by removing this division. In a democratic society there can be different opinions. But there must be unity on the basic issues of Bangladesh`s independence — sovereignty, democracy, human rights. "As a nation, we must not be intolerant. It is not possible to remove the garbage of 17 years in 17 days or even 17 months. So, this government should be given time." Fakhrul said, "We have verified that the people want an impartial election with the participation of all. We think that all kinds of reforms are necessary to make this election fair. So we have been saying that elections should be held within a reasonable time. And this roadmap should be given to the government." On the issue of reforms, he said the government would not have to do most of those. "It will be done by a parliament which has been elected." At the conference, Fakhrul also warned that India`s continuous campaign against Bangladesh can pose a great danger. "Now a trend has started on social media. Some are trying to destroy the achievements of Bangladesh. We have to be careful as we cannot meet another disaster right now. There is danger over our heads as the mastermind of fascism is staying in India," he said. After the fall of the Awami League administration, several parties, including Jamaat-e-Islami, have called for the introduction of the PR system in the national parliamentary elections.

Header Advertisement
Header Advertisement