Dhaka: BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has alleged that a political party, in alliance with several others, is exerting pressure to hold a referendum before the next parliamentary polls as part of a conspiracy to disrupt the electoral process. Fakhrul expressed these concerns during a rally in front of the BNP Central Office at Nayapaltan, marking the historic Revolution and Solidarity Day.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Fakhrul emphasized that both the election and the referendum should occur on the same day, specifically in February 2026. He warned that failing to do so would lead to public disapproval in Bangladesh. Although he did not name the party, Fakhrul accused it of forming an alliance and applying various pressures for a pre-election referendum.
Fakhrul argued that holding the referendum on Election Day would save public funds and uphold the significance of the main vote. He noted that conducting two separate voting events would incur considerable expenses and diminish the main election's importance.
He urged the youth to continue supporting the party's movement, honoring the sacrifices made by BNP leaders and activists. Fakhrul reiterated the BNP's commitment to participating in the upcoming elections, expressing confidence in their victory and the promise of building a new Bangladesh.
Fakhrul also highlighted BNP's Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman as a pivotal figure in the modern democratic movement. He stated that Rahman's 31-point reform programme would advance the nation. Additionally, Fakhrul mentioned that an interim government had started working on reforms with BNP's backing. After nearly a year of preparation, all parties reached a consensus on October 17, agreeing on common points for reform.