BNP interview resumes with Tarique on video call

Political opposition BNP began second day of their nomination interview today with its acting Chairperson Tarique Rahman on video call.

Today’s session began with interviewing nomination aspirants of Barisal division at 10:00am at BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia’s Gulshan office.

Syrul Kabir Khan, a staff of the BNP chairperson’s media wing, confirmed The Daily Star of it and Tarique’s virtual presence at the office room.

Tarique’s participation in BNP’s nomination process raised talks yesterday. The ruling party has filed a complaint with the Election Commission against it.

WHAT HAPPENED YESTERDAY?

Ruling Awami League raised an objection against Tarique’s participation in BNP’s nomination process before moving a written complaint.

In the complaint letter, ruling Awami League alleged that Tarique, being a convict, should not be allowed as he taint the election with controversy.

BNP, however, has snapped back, saying it is at freedom to seek consultation from “anyone they want” to conduct the nomination process.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN NOW?

The Election Commission itself is not clear whether it can prohibit BNP from consulting with Tarique Rahman for choosing its nomination candidates.

Earlier today, Election Commissioner Rafiqul Islam told reporters that he would have to look up the lawbook to have a say anything in this regard.

However, he said, upon the basis of a formal complaint and provided that the law allows it, the commission might be taking an action in this regard.

WHY IS TARIQUE ‘TABOO’?

Tarique has been living in London for the last nine years.

Convicted in several cases (in absentia) including that of the sensational August 21 grenade attack, he does not have any valid Bangladeshi travel document.

He had handed over his passport to the UK Home Office almost four years ago.

The UK Home Office sent his passport to the Bangladesh High Commission. He has to apply for a new passport to return home, according a UNB report.

Bangladesh government wants to bring Tarique back and face punishment he received in three separate cases, including the Zia Orphanage and Zia Charitable Trust graft cases.