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Published : 06 Jan 2026, 11:26 PM
A European Union delegation has met BNP acting chief Tarique Rahman to discuss ensuring a free and fair national election.
The meeting took place on Tuesday night at the party chief’s Gulshan office and was led by the EU ambassador Michael Miller.
Over one and a half hours, discussions covered the parliamentary election, BNP’s perspectives, and the conditions of Bangladesh’s workers.
Tarique was joined by BNP Standing Committee Member Nazrul Islam Khan, chairman’s Advisory Council Member Ismail Zabih Ullah, Joint Secretary Humayun Kabir, and acting chairman’s Advisor Mahadi Amin.
After the meeting, Nazrul Islam told bdnews24.com that the EU delegation had primarily discussed election monitoring with Tarique.
“It was a very productive and follow-up oriented discussion,” he said.
He added that the delegation’s concerns included how the upcoming election would unfold and BNP’s role after the vote. “Our acting chairman clearly stated that it is BNP’s demand and desire that the election be held as soon as scheduled, peacefully, freely, and fairly. He reaffirmed BNP’s commitment and interest in this process.”
Nazrul said Tarique also highlighted that the people of Bangladesh have waited a long time to vote and are eager to participate in a peaceful election.
“We are preparing to participate actively and have taken all necessary steps,” Nazrul quotes Tarique as saying..
On EU assistance, Nazrul said Tarique expressed gratitude for European support in Bangladesh’s development and requested more effective future cooperation.
“The EU delegation said they plan to stand by Bangladesh with larger and more substantial support,” he noted.
Regarding workers’ welfare, Nazrul said the delegation raised concerns over labour rights. Tarique reportedly highlighted BNP’s role in worker welfare, including the Labour Court reforms and the establishment of the Labour Welfare Foundation during former prime minister Khaleda Zia’s administration.
“BNP remains committed to advancing labour welfare and protecting workers’ rights,” he said.
On the election environment, Nazrul said, “We want the polls to be free, fair, and peaceful. Our acting chairman has repeatedly emphasised peace and consensus in his speeches since returning from abroad.”
He added that unlike previous elections, the EU is sending a large observer team this time, showing clear support and willingness to assist the next government.
Nazrul described the current election environment as “good” and emphasised, “This election belongs to our country and our people. Foreign concern should not override that fact.”
This was the first meeting between Tarique and a foreign delegation at the BNP office since his return on Dec 25.
