Khaleda Zia will contest in upcoming election: Mintoo

BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia is in good health and will participate in the upcoming national elections, BNP Vice Chairman Abdul Awal Mintoo said today (30 July).

Speaking to reporters at an event in Feni, Mintoo said, "There is no concern regarding elections in the district. Our leader Khaleda Zia is well now. She will contest the election. There's nothing to worry about in Feni."

"If a fair election is held, the BNP will surely win in Feni, given the district's strong electoral history," he added, reports UNB.

Mintoo also suggested the election might be held earlier than expected, possibly as soon as January, citing ongoing legal proceedings surrounding the caretaker government system.

"A case regarding the caretaker government is under trial at the Supreme Court. If the court reinstates it, then this interim government will function as a caretaker government. As per the Constitution, elections must be held within 90 days under such a system," he explained.

He also noted that a joint statement on the interim government was issued following discussions with BNP's acting Chairman Tarique Rahman in London.

"We have faith in that understanding and expect the election in the first week of February. But depending on legal and political developments, it could happen earlier," he said.

The former FBCCI president emphasised that without elected governments, meaningful development is not possible. "If a country remains without an elected government for a decade or two, there can be no real economic progress or protection of life and property," he stated.

Addressing the BNP's long-standing call for electoral reform, Mintoo said, "We have been demanding fair elections since 2006. For 19 years, we've endured struggles, repression, and hardship – not for power, but for a credible electoral process."

He further criticised the 2008 general election, calling it unfair, and reiterated that Bangladesh has not had any election-time government since 2006.