Bangladesh Nationalist Party Boosts Activities Amidst Rising Public Concerns
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is now increasing its political presence. It is also expanding its organizational work. This happens while opposition parties hold many public programs. The Awami League also has activities, even though its programs are banned.
BNP leaders say they are not acting because of any pressure. They want to fight against what they call “false information” from other parties. They also want to respond to actions by the Awami League.
However, some worry exists inside the BNP. This comes after recent, sudden increases in fuel prices. Economic problems also add to this concern, according to party sources.
Many opposition groups are holding protests. These include Jamaat-e-Islami and the National Citizen Party (NCP). They demand solutions for fuel and electricity shortages. They also want lower prices for goods, better law and order, and an end to corruption.
Fuel prices went up by Tk 20 per liter on September 21. The government explained this rise. It said international fuel costs have increased. This is because of the war in the Middle East.
State Minister for Energy Aninda Islam said the price hike was necessary. He stated that without it, the government would lose much money. This loss would be about Tk 400 billion each year just for diesel.
Mohammad Hatem is the president of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA). He said the government had few other options as global prices rose. But he also said the increase was too high. He felt a smaller rise in diesel prices would have helped ordinary people more.
Ruhul Kabir Rizvi is the Acting Secretary General of the BNP. He spoke about the fuel price increase. He said the government is not to blame. He explained that the fuel problem began because of the war in the Middle East.
Mr. Rizvi added that the government still loses money on diesel. Even after the price increase, it loses about Tk 70 for every liter. He also said BNP’s programs aim to correct wrong information. They also stand against groups they see as harmful.
The BNP is organizing protest marches and gatherings. These events are taking place in Dhaka and other parts of the country. The party is also making its presence stronger at district and city levels.
Some senior government officials spoke without giving their names. They said the government’s public image is getting worse. They believe Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s personal image is the government’s only strong point.
AHM Hamidur Rahman Azad is a leader of Jamaat-e-Islami. He said the fuel problem affects everyone. He stated that opposition programs help find solutions. They do not just create pressure on the government.
