Published : 23 Dec 2025, 04:36 PM
Updated : 21 Aug 2026, 02:55 PM
Rifts within the BNP have emerged in several constituencies in Dinajpur ahead of the 13th national election, raising concerns among party members and potentially benefiting rival Jamaat-e-Islami.
Of the six parliamentary seats in the district, BNP insiders say disputes over candidate nominations have surfaced in four. Party activists warn that unless these disagreements are resolved, the BNP risks losing ground, particularly as Jamaat-e-Islami seeks to consolidate its position.
In at least three constituencies, unsuccessful nomination aspirants have continued to stage rallies, demonstrations and torch processions in protest against the party’s official candidates. At the same time, declared BNP candidates have intensified their election campaigns with the support of their respective organisations.
Two seats -- Dinajpur-3 (Sadar) and Dinajpur-5 (Birampur–Nawabganj–Hakimpur–Ghoraghat) -- appear unaffected by internal conflict.
Former prime minister Khaleda Zia has been named as the BNP candidate in Dinajpur-3, while Standing Committee member Dr AZM Zahid Hossain is contesting Dinajpur-5. Party leaders say activists at all levels are campaigning in support of both candidates.
DISPUTES IN DINAJPUR-1
In Dinajpur-1, which includes Birganj and Kaharole Upazilas, the BNP has nominated Manjurul Islam, president of its Birganj Upazila unit. The decision has been challenged by supporters of Zakir Hossain Dhalu, the unit’s general secretary, who was denied the nomination.
Dhalu has accused Manjurul of lacking an active role in previous political movements and of spending extended periods abroad. Manjurul has rejected the claims, saying he has remained politically active for nearly two decades and that the party’s central leadership selected him after reviewing his record.
Local BNP leaders acknowledge some internal opposition but say Manjurul retains significant grassroots support due to his involvement in social welfare activities.
TENSIONS IN DINAJPUR-2
In Dinajpur-2, covering Birol and Bochaganj Upazilas, three senior BNP figures -- Bazlur Rashid, Manjurul Islam and Mazharul Islam -- have publicly opposed the party’s nominated candidate, Sadik Riaz Chowdhury.
The critics allege Sadik was not visible during past political protests and did not stand by party members facing legal cases and repression. Sadik has dismissed the accusations, saying they stem from disappointment over the nomination outcome, and insists the party’s election board assessed his local activities before endorsing him.
Grassroots activists warn that continued infighting could strengthen Jamaat-e-Islami’s prospects in the constituency, where its candidate is already seen as well organised.
OPEN RESISTANCE IN DINAJPUR-4
In Dinajpur-4, which includes Chirirbandar and Khansama Upazilas, the BNP has nominated former MP Akhtaruzzaman Mia. His candidacy is being opposed by veteran party figures Advocate Abdul Halim and retired Army colonel Mostafizur Rahman, who have jointly mobilised supporters to demand a change.
Halim argues that Akhtaruzzaman’s popularity has declined and claims Jamaat-e-Islami candidate Aftab Uddin Mollah is currently ahead. Akhtaruzzaman, however, maintains that the party leadership made its decision after careful consideration and says long-term political engagement cannot be replaced overnight.
PROTESTS CONTINUE IN DINAJPUR-5
Dinajpur-5, comprising Parbatipur and Phulbari Upazilas, has also seen sustained protests following the nomination of London-based Barrister Kamruzzaman. Senior leaders, including former MP AZM Rewanul Haque and BNP Agriculture Affairs Secretary SM Zakaria Bachchu, were among those seeking the ticket.
Since the announcement, the two unsuccessful aspirants have led frequent demonstrations and road blockades. Both are based in Parbatipur, which accounts for the majority of voters in the constituency and has traditionally determined the election outcome.
A local BNP leader warned that failure to resolve internal disputes quickly could prove costly for the party at the polls.
