BNP remains sceptical about the scheduled parliamentary elections in December, asserting that covert manoeuvres are underway to defer the polls.
Senior party leaders believe that even within government quarters, there are attempts to stall the electoral process.
Although interim government chief adviser Muhammad Yunus has reassured multiple international media outlets and dignitaries that elections will be held as planned, BNP leadership continues to suspect foul play.
Election Commission has also indicated its preparedness for the polls.
However, BNP leaders perceive a persistent ‘conspiracy’ to obstruct the process.
The issue was deliberated upon during a meeting of the party’s Standing Committee at the chairperson’s office in Gulshan on Monday.
National Citizen Party (NCP) convenor Nahid Islam recently told two international news agencies that given the prevailing law and order situation and the current policing framework, he does not foresee a feasible environment for a national election.
BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed, speaking to media, stated, “The chief adviser has indicated elections in December, and we expect that he will soon present a concrete roadmap to the nation. This will help dispel uncertainty, restoring confidence in business and all sectors.”
BNP leadership remains wary of the deteriorating security situation, attributing it to administrative inertia or a lack of governmental control.
They fear that unless law and order improve, the prospect of a credible election will remain in question.
BNP has persistently pressured the government for early elections.
Conversely, the government has been advancing its agenda through the National Consensus Commission, which seeks reforms in areas such as the constitution, election commission, and public administration.
Preliminary discussions have already taken place with political parties, who were asked to submit their opinions by 13 March.
Sources within BNP have confirmed that the party will not submit its opinion to the National Consensus Commission immediately.
Rather than merely ticking checkboxes in the provided framework, BNP intends to compile a comprehensive report based on the commission’s recommendations before formally stating its position.
The party has requested additional time for this purpose.
Salahuddin Ahmed elaborated, “A simple checkbox response might lead to misinterpretation. Hence, we will furnish a detailed report alongside our stance.”
Despite its vocal criticism of the government and continuous pressure for elections, BNP is cautious not to completely sever ties with the ruling authorities.
The party aims to navigate the electoral road without provoking governmental backlash.
There are also concerns within BNP regarding the scope of the National Consensus Commission’s dialogue.
Questions persist over whether the discussions will include only registered parties or extend to unregistered ones as well.
If restricted to registered parties, groups like Jamaat and the youth-led National Citizen Party would be excluded.
Some BNP leaders believe that clarity on this matter is crucial, as broader engagement would necessitate invitations to multiple other parties.
While keeping up the political pressure, BNP appears intent on maintaining a strategic balance—asserting its demands without antagonising the administration.
