BNP warns of threats to democracy, urges focus on national election

BNP leader AZM Zahid Hossain has raised alarm over conspiracies aimed at undermining Bangladesh’s democratic process, urging supporters to stay vigilant and united ahead of the upcoming national election.

Speaking at a rally outside the National Press Club on Friday, Zahid said, “There are those among us, hiding in the shadows, who want to destroy democracy. It is our responsibility to expose them.”

Referring to the recent murder of a scrap trader near Mitford Hospital where some suspects were reportedly linked to the BNP Zahid stressed that the party and its affiliated organizations have taken swift action and demanded strict punishment. However, he condemned ongoing baseless allegations against BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman.

“Why are you playing with fire by trying to destroy the political culture of this country and become pawns for others?” Zahid asked.

He challenged rival political parties to present concrete democratic programmes instead of vague calls for proportional representation or local government elections.

“The fight for democracy is centered on national elections, not local ones,” Zahid said, cautioning that attempts to delay democracy only serve personal interests.

Zahid warned that the public would not remain powerless indefinitely. “If you keep the people powerless for too long, they will rise up, and you will be consumed by the fire you have lit,” he said.

He urged unity and patience, promising BNP’s continued fight against authoritarianism, with national elections scheduled for February. “The conspirators will not succeed,” he added.

Addressing recent unrest during the National Citizen Party rally in Gopalganj, Zahid blamed both the government and law enforcement for failing to maintain order. Questioning the intelligence agencies, he pointed to a bomb attack in Kotalipara that occurred despite heavy security during the former prime minister’s visit.

“Similar events in Faridpur and Narail went smoothly. Why then only in Gopalganj?” he questioned.

Zahid concluded by calling for the exposure of those within their ranks who may be working to undermine democracy from within, alongside external authoritarian forces.