Local BNP leaders seek replacement of Gopalganj-2 candidate Babar Ali over local backlash
They claim that controversies involving Babar’s close associates have damaged the party's reputation
A section of the district BNP leaders has formally requested the party to reconsider the nomination of AKM Babar Ali as the potential candidate for the Gopalganj-2 (Sadar–Kashiani) constituency, citing strong dissatisfaction among grassroots leaders and aspirants.
In a written application sent to the party's acting chairman today (20 November), local BNP leaders said many party workers, supporters, and residents were "frustrated" to see Babar Ali's name on the preliminary list announced on 3 November.
The letter alleged that Babar is "isolated from the public, largely unknown in the area, and associated with arms trading, extortion through cases, and land grabbing" after the July Uprising.
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The nomination seekers further claimed that controversies involving Babar's close associates have damaged the party's reputation.
According to the application, a previous raid by joint forces on Babar's residence, during which weapons were reportedly recovered, is still under investigation — an issue they believe is causing negative sentiment among voters.
The applicants argued that it would be difficult to campaign for the BNP's paddy-sheaf symbol with such a "controversial candidate."
They urged the party to consider any of the other five nomination seekers, claiming that doing so would strengthen grassroots unity and enhance BNP's prospects even in Gopalganj-2, a long-established stronghold of the Awami League.
Copies of the application were also sent to the BNP secretary general and several Standing Committee members.
