In Rajshahi, internal strains complicate the BNP’s political campaign

Supporters backing leaders who failed to win BNP nominations in three Rajshahi constituencies have held protests, calling on the party to revise its candidate list.

As a result, BNP candidates in Rajshahi-1, Rajshahi-3 and Rajshahi-5 are struggling to campaign amid what party leaders describe as “non-cooperation” from a section of their own activists.

In several instances, clashes have broken out, leaving people injured.

The BNP announced its list of potential candidates for 237 constituencies on Nov 3.

Since then, supporters of aspirants who were left off the list have staged torch processions, blocked highways and held demonstrations -- including protesting while lying on roads wearing burial shrouds -- demanding changes to nominations.

Facing sustained protests, the party suspended the nomination for Madaripur-1 and announced a new candidate on Dec 4.

However, despite talks between central leaders and local units, tensions in the three Rajshahi seats have largely remained unresolved.

Grassroots leaders are now calling for direct intervention from the party’s central command.

RAJSHAHI-1: BNP ‘DIVIDED’ ON THE FIELD

BNP has nominated retired major general Sharif Uddin for the Rajshahi-1 seat, which covers the Godagari and Tanore areas.

He is a former military secretary to party chairperson Khaleda Zia, a member of her advisory council, and the younger brother of late BNP minister Aminul Haque.

Sharif Uddin has begun campaigning, banking on his family’s political legacy and public recognition.

A section of local BNP leaders and activists consider him a strong contender.

However, supporters of Sultanul Islam Tareq, who was denied the nomination, have continued protests demanding a change of candidate.

At least 20 people were injured in clashes between the two sides during a torch procession in Tanore on Nov 25.

Earlier, on Nov 22, protesters blocked the Chapainawabganj–Dhaka highway in Godagari, wearing burial shrouds.

Eight leaders had sought the BNP nomination for the Rajshahi-1 seat.

Leaders aligned with Sultanul argue that Sharif is new to grassroots politics and that his nomination could benefit the Jamaat-e-Islami candidate.

Abul Hossain, joint general secretary of the Rajshahi district unit of Zia Moncho, claimed that Sharif entered politics only after the recent change in power.

“People don’t like those around him,” Abul Hossain said.

“Many of them are Awami League allies, land grabbers, extortionists and linked to drug syndicates.

“That’s why we want candidates who stood by the party during difficult times and are loyal to its grassroots.”

Sultanul, a member of Godagari Upazila BNP and a central committee member of the Bangladesh Zia Foundation, said the movement reflected grassroots sentiment.

“When leaders and activists start a movement, it cannot be stopped,” he said.

“The grassroots want popular candidates, and the high command must respect that demand.”

Sharif could not be reached for comment despite repeated attempts.

However, his supporter Mizanur Rahman Mizan, former mayor of Tanore Municipality and a member of the Rajshahi district BNP convening committee, criticised the protests.

“Those who go against the party’s decision and take to the streets cannot be considered dedicated leaders,” he said.

“The party has taken the right decision by nominating Sharif Uddin. His family has made significant contributions to the BNP, and he has public support in Tanore and Godagari.”

RAJSHAHI-3: ‘EXTERNAL-LOCAL’ ISSUE

BNP candidate Shofiqul Haque Milon, central relief and rehabilitation affairs assistant secretary, has been nominated for Rajshahi-3, covering Paba and Mohonpur.

His nomination sparked anger among a section of local party leaders and activists, who support Raihanul Alam Raihan, a district convening committee member who was denied the nomination.

Protesters have demanded a local candidate, citing Milon as an “external” who is based in the city.

Demonstrations included lying on roads in Kharkhari, Paba on Nov 22, and a planned protest at Kashiadanga on Nov 30, which was postponed due to Khaleda Zia’s illness.

Four leaders had sought the BNP nomination for Rajshahi-3 -- three were “outsiders” and one local.

Raihanul Alam Raihan said, “The people of the area want a candidate available in times of trouble. The party nominated someone from the city, not the constituency. But I have no plans to run as an independent candidate.”

Shofiqul Haque Milon told reporters, “After the announcement, I contacted all aspirants. All leaders and activists are campaigning with me. Those who are arrogant will also come around once the schedule is announced.”

RAJSHAHI-5: THE ‘DEPRIVED’ ON ONE STAGE

Tensions have been ongoing in Rajshahi-5, covering Puthia and Durgapur, following the nomination of BNP district convening committee member Nazrul Islam Mondal.

Many supporters of other aspirants have been holding torch processions, rallies, and blocking highways almost daily.

On Nov 25, protesters staged a demonstration in Durgapur, demanding a change of candidate. They alleged that a leader who is “disconnected from the people” was nominated over those who had long served the party despite hardships, imprisonment, and humiliation.

Abu Bakar Siddique, central committee member and convener of Puthia Upazila BNP, said: “The party should nominate a qualified candidate based on a neutral survey of popularity. The leadership must understand the sentiment of local leaders and activists.”

Nazrul Islam, the nominated candidate, said he is focused on campaigning and confident the party will unite once the election schedule is announced.