BNP’s recent call for national unity has been largely welcomed by political parties, with several cautioning against the risks of a counter-revolution in the absence of unity.
Discussions with BNP leaders reveal their unity proposal excludes the Awami League, focusing on addressing concerns over the interim government’s lack of coordination.
Particular criticism has been directed at certain advisers whose unrestrained remarks conflict with BNP’s political stance, highlighting fears of disarray benefiting Awami League’s potential return to power.
Speaking at a National Poetry Council event on Wednesday (27 November), BNP Secretary-General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir stated, "Certain actions are increasing the possibility of fascism’s return."
Sources disclose that the BNP has discussed the need for national unity with Chief Adviser Professor Dr Yunus amidst recent unsettling events.
The party has urged the chief adviser to take proactive measures to address the situation.
BNP Standing Committee Member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury clarified the party’s stance, asserting, "Why should there be national unity with autocrats and their collaborators? We have called for unity against them. There is no question of including them. They are behind the ongoing turmoil, fuelling these disruptions."
BNP’s unity proposal has received endorsement from the Jatiyo Party, whose chief GM Quader stated, "We welcome BNP’s call for national unity. Given the current disruptions to peace and order, such unity is imperative."
Jamaat-e-Islami also supported the initiative, with the party's secretary Golam Parwar noting their approval.
Jamaat’s Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman emphasised the need for a framework of unity, urging major political parties to shoulder responsibility to thwart conspiracies by deposed autocrats.
Mufti Syed Muhammad Rezaul Karim, Ameer of Islami Andolan, also the Chormonai Pir, underscored the necessity of unity amidst widespread unrest.
"The country is facing severe challenges, with conspiracies to destabilise it. National unity is the only solution to counter such schemes," he remarked.
Mahmudur Rahman Manna, a Democracy Platform organiser and president of Nagorik Oikya, also stressed that national unity is indispensable under the current circumstances.
Revolutionary Workers Party General Secretary Saiful Haque echoed similar concerns.
"The divisions among the populace are deeply worrying. Provocations and conspiracies around various issues are creating unrest, raising fears of counter-revolution. Unity among students and the masses is crucial," he observed.
Nurul Haque Nur, president of Ganodhikar Parishad, highlighted the national crisis, lamenting the interim government’s failure to form an inclusive national government.
"Given the circumstances, the unity of students and the people is the only way forward," he stated.
AB Party Member Secretary Mojibur Rahman Monju praised BNP’s initiative, remarking, "If BNP, as a major party, takes the responsibility to foster national unity, it deserves commendation. Now is the time to rebuild the nation through collective realisation."
Hefazat-e-Islam’s Naib-e-Ameer Maulana Mohiuddin Rabbani also supported BNP’s call, asserting that it was student and public unity that brought down the autocratic government.
"Future struggles against oppression, inequality, and extremist organisations must also rely on unity. To safeguard the country’s independence and sovereignty, all must stand united," he affirmed.
