To begin with, the origins of the July uprising have been widely misunderstood, both by foreign observers and Dhaka’s own elite commentariat.
While serious criticisms of the Awami League are both valid and necessary, they must be proportionate and grounded in fact.
Can such a deeply rooted political entity be banned out of existence?
The National Citizen Party yesterday condemned Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus’ remark that the government had no plans to ban the Awami League.
Bangladesh’s political landscape has long been defined by division and vengeance.
The BNP has decided to demand an explanation from the interim government regarding how Sheikh Hasina and her associates managed to flee Bangladesh after the fall of the Awami League government on August 5.
Just six months ago, the tables were completely turned. Khaleda was under house arrest, while her party was desperately appealing for her to be allowed to travel for medical care.
For an outside observer, it must be baffling that the BNP, having witnessed what the actions of the last 15 years did to the Awami League in three short weeks this summer, never even considered the fact that if they didn’t play fast and loose with people’s precious time like Sheikh Hasina used to, it would set a nice contrast in the minds of voters and the young generation.
Their lack of internal democracy casts doubt on the future of state reform drive
One can argue that BNP does not have the organisational wisdom or the cunning to wage a crippling street campaign
Our people, but for whose hard work, sacrifice, and love for the country we would not have come where we have, deserve better.
Authorities must prevent violence and legal intimidation targeting BNP activists
BNP to some extent and AL to a far greater extent have changed Bangladesh. Can’t we expect them to change themselves, even a bit?
The rigid positions of AL-BNP will only lengthen the political deadlock
The amendment of the Representation of the People Order (RPO) comes at a critical juncture when the demand for holding a free and fair election in Bangladesh is getting louder at home and abroad
Absence of main opposition remains the biggest challenge
The rift within the local Awami League has put its mayor nominee for Barishal city in a tight spot, while the party ticket holder in Khulna city should have an easy run since he has no strong opponents.
A fair election will require much more than token initiatives
It must be recognised that the election is not a one-day phenomenon – it is a process involving multiple interrelated steps
