Anti-liberation forces of '71 now conspiring to delay polls again: BNP chairperson's Adviser Zainul

BNP Chairperson's adviser Zainul Abdin Farroque has alleged that Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami is plotting to delay the upcoming national election, scheduled to be held in February 2026, by proposing a proportional representation (PR) electoral system instead of the conventional electoral model, thereby attempting to deprive people of their voting rights.

Speaking at a discussion marking BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia's 80th birthday today (15 August) at the Jatiya Press Club, Farroque said, "Those who opposed the country's liberation in 1971 are once again plotting against democracy by trying to obstruct the election process."

Referring to the sacrifices, arrests, enforced disappearances, and killings of BNP leaders and activists under what he described as Sheikh Hasina's "long fascist regime," Farroque warned that any conspiracy surrounding the election would be strongly resisted by the people.

"Those speaking out against the election must choose their words carefully. The public is watching and will respond appropriately," said the veteran politician and former opposition chief whip.

Also speaking at the event, BNP Chairperson's adviser Harunur Rashid said that only the smaller parties — which lack popular electoral support — are pushing for the PR system.

He urged the election commission (EC) not to unilaterally finalise amendments to the Representation of the People Order (RPO) without consulting major political parties.

"Such critical reforms must come through dialogue, not imposition," he added.

Rejecting allegations of underground political collaboration, Harun said, "BNP and its student wing, Chhatra Dal, are not secret organisations. We have never made secret deals with the Awami League, nor have we taken any benefits behind closed doors. We have always fought on the streets in the interest of the country and its people."

Criticising the newly formed Jatiya Nagorik Party (NCP), which emerged after the July mass movement, Harun described it as "blessed by the government."

"NCP leaders are occupying government circuit houses and rest houses during their district tours, with protection from the army, police, and RAB," he alleged. "Meanwhile, in the name of new allocations, they are extorting people and creating unrest across the country."

The discussion was organised by the Bangladesh Karmojibi Dal (Workers' Party), with its president Md Ali Hossain presiding. The event was moderated by the party's general secretary Md Altaf Hossain Sardar.