BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has expressed strong confidence regarding the upcoming national elections, stating that he sees no risk of “election engineering” due to the presence of proper checks and balances.
Speaking to journalists at his residence in the Kalibari area of Thakurgaon on Tuesday morning, the senior leader predicted a “landslide victory” for the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).
Confidence in Fair Polls
Responding to queries about potential manipulation, Mirza Fakhrul noted that while the history of the last 15 years has left many skeptical about fair elections, the current environment appears different.
“Because the check and balance and counter-balance are functioning correctly this time, there is no fear of the so-called election engineering. We are optimistic that BNP will secure a landslide win,” he said.
He admitted that some anxiety remains within the party due to past experiences of rigging, but added that the overall atmosphere suggests that any engineering attempts will fail to have a decisive impact.
Administration and Neutrality
Addressing allegations that the field administration is influenced by Jamaat-e-Islami, the Secretary General dismissed such concerns. He emphasized that government officials are expected to perform their duties according to the rules, regardless of their personal political opinions.
“The reports of such allegations have appeared in the media, but I don’t see it that way. I believe public servants will fulfill their responsibilities professionally,” he remarked.
Key Highlights from the Briefing:
- Democratic Gateway: Mirza Fakhrul described this election as a “gateway” to restoring democracy in Bangladesh after 15 years of struggle.
- Tarique Rahman’s Influence: He credited the recent visit of BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman to Thakurgaon for significantly boosting the party’s morale and political standing in the region.
- Minority Safety: Regarding concerns within the Hindu community, he encouraged everyone—regardless of religion—to exercise their right to vote without fear. “Bangladesh won’t become heaven overnight, but we are encouraging everyone to go to the polling centers. It is your right.”
- Accepting Results: When asked if BNP would accept the election results regardless of the outcome, he reminded reporters that BNP has a history of participating in parliament even with few seats, citing the 2008 elections.
Strategic Preparedness
Mirza Fakhrul clarified that the party is taking every rival seriously and is fully prepared for the contest. He also touched upon the 11-party alliance and Jamaat-e-Islami’s strategy, describing the latter as “tactful” but unlikely to mislead the masses this time.
“We take every election seriously and are moving forward with that preparation. Our goal is the restoration of a democratic environment where the practice of democracy can flourish in both state and society,” he concluded.
