BNP for holding polls within 2025

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) emphasised the urgency of holding national elections within 2025 during a meeting with European Union Ambassador to Bangladesh, Michael Miller, on Sunday. 

The party asserted that timely elections are essential to restore democratic governance in the country.

“The discussion centred on key issues, particularly the timing of the election, our perspective on it, and the reforms needed,” said BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury during a press briefing following the meeting with BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir at the party chairperson's Gulshan office.

Khosru underscored that conducting the 13th parliamentary election within this year is critical to ensuring the transition to an elected government. He emphasized that an interim government should prioritise organising the national election to re-establish the democratic process.

“A country cannot sustain itself under an undemocratic system for long, as such governments lack legitimacy, public connection, and effective mobilization. People are also deprived of the opportunity to voice their opinions or provide feedback,” he said, iterating the BNP's demand for an expedited return to democracy.

Khosru revealed that the BNP discussed its stance on reforms with the EU envoy. The party proposed immediate implementation of reforms that have already gained consensus. “For reforms where consensus is yet to be reached, these will be presented to the public during the elections, and their mandate will guide the way forward,” he added.

The BNP plans to present reform proposals in Parliament for debate and approval if elected to power.

Discussions also touched on Bangladesh's economic situation, given the EU’s significant economic ties with the country. Khosru assured that if the BNP assumes power, it would implement effective programs to rejuvenate the economy. He also extended support to any initiatives by the current government aimed at economic recovery.

“The EU envoy shared that European investors are keen to invest in Bangladesh, and we welcome them,” Khosru said, highlighting the importance of fostering foreign investment.

Ambassador Michael Miller arrived at the BNP Chairperson’s Gulshan office at 3:30pm for the hour-long meeting. 

Senior BNP leaders, including Dr Abdul Moin Khan, Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, and Organising Secretary Shama Obed, were present.