BNP demands specific February election date, says outcome is obvious to all

The party leader Shamsuzzaman Dudu says even a “madman” knows who will take power next

The BNP has pressed the interim government to fix a specific date for the general election, accusing certain quarters of trying to derail the process through “diversionary tactics” in the name of reform and justice.

At a protest event in Dhaka on Friday, the party’s Vice-Chairman Shamsuzzaman Dudu warned that the longer the government delays naming a date, the deeper the “crisis” will grow.

He said the path to stability lies in “a clear and timely declaration”.

According to Dudu, there is now “real hope” for a national election following a meeting in London between BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman and Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus.

He urged the caretaker administration to capitalise on this momentum by naming a date -- early, mid, or late February -- that could calm political uncertainty.

Dudu accused certain groups of using legal and institutional pretexts to obstruct the election, saying their aim is to “sabotage” the democratic process.

While avoiding direct references, he took aim at a “so-called” alliance of intellectuals, politicians, and special interests “clinging to the illusion of power”.

“Even a madman knows who’s going to form the next government,” he said.

He added that the BNP has governed before and is poised to return to power again through popular support.

Calling for national unity, Dudu warned of cross-border interference, suggesting hostile forces were “dreaming of disruption” and “waiting to intervene.”

He urged the BNP supporters to remain alert and united.

The BNP leader went further, predicting that the Awami League would be out of power for the next century.

He held ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina directly responsible for “destroying her own party”.

The protest was organised by Jatiyatabadi Nobin Dal at the National Press Club, demanding justice for the 2011 police assault on the BNP lawmakers, including then opposition chief whip Zainul Abedin Farroque.

He called for the trial of police officers Harunor Rashid and Biplob Kumar Sarker, who were allegedly involved.

Dudu also challenged those dismissing the BNP’s strength. “Many now pretend the BNP is irrelevant. But when the election comes, it’ll be clear who’s strong and who’s not.

“We believe polls are essential.”

“When the votes are counted, it’ll be clear who’s winning seats, who’s losing deposits, and who’s being forced out of the game,” he added.