Tensions are rising in Bangladesh’s pre-election landscape as the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) categorically denied accusations leveled by Jamaat-e-Islami deputy chief Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher. Speaking on Saturday, BNP spokesperson Mahdi Amin from the election steering committee labeled the claims of clandestine deals with India as ‘utter falsehoods and propaganda’.
Taher had alleged that BNP, under Tarique Rahman, inked three pacts with New Delhi, citing unnamed media sources. Amin, during a briefing at chairperson Khaleda Zia’s Gulshan residence, challenged the absence of proof. ‘They can’t produce evidence because none exists,’ he asserted, calling it a ploy to defame BNP and confuse the electorate.
‘Claims sourced from media with no basis are pure political tactics,’ Amin remarked. He portrayed the episode as either ignorance or a calculated move to stir unrest ahead of voting. BNP positions itself as champions of sovereignty, prioritizing Bangladesh’s interests above all.
Amin invoked the party’s legacy: rallies for fair water shares from Teesta and Padma rivers, and vehement protests against Felani’s border killing. ‘Begum Khaleda Zia led us in defending our freedom against compromising foreign policies,’ he noted.
In a proactive step, BNP introduced an election hotline and WhatsApp channel. These platforms aim to provide legal advice, register complaints, and gather positive feedback, enhancing direct communication with supporters.
With elections looming, this clash underscores the fierce competition. BNP dismisses rival strategies as negative campaigning, reaffirming its dedication to empowering citizens and safeguarding national integrity against opportunistic maneuvers.