BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir shares his views in an exclusive interview with the Daily Sun’s Special Correspondent Mohammad Al Amin, reflecting on the July-August mass uprising, electoral prospects, party alliances, reforms and the broader political landscape.

Daily Sun: How are you?

Mirza Fakhrul: I am fine, Alhamdulillah.

Daily Sun: Various political parties claim credit for the July-August mass uprising. What was BNP’s role, and why did the party not participate under its banner?

Mirza Fakhrul: We do not believe in taking credit. From the beginning, we opposed the fascist rule of the Awami League and fought for democracy and people’s voting rights. The students’ protest focused on the quota system, which did not directly align with our core issue. So, we did not participate under our party banner, although we supported it. When the movement evolved into a one-point demand, we joined in. We had already announced a similar one-point agenda earlier. The fall of Hasina and an end to fascism have been our primary goals. That is how we were involved.

Daily Sun: What experience has BNP gained from the mass uprising? Do you see any new political force or philosophy emerging?

Mirza Fakhrul: The students who led the uprising want political engagement, but have yet to present a concrete philosophy or course of action. Their speeches express intention, but no formal document has emerged. So, no new ideological platform has taken shape yet.

In the post-uprising scenario, religious-based political groups have become more active, while the left has not gained significant ground. BNP remains the primary political force, followed by Jamaat, NCP, Ganatantra Mancha, Nagorik Oikya and others. I do not see a truly new force emerging, but I do see a rise in religion-based and somewhat right-wing politics. That said, religion-based and right-wing politics are not always the same. Globally, right-wing politics is rising, and we are seeing some signs of that here too.

Daily Sun: A strong desire for change has been seen, especially among the youth. Is BNP launching a new political approach to address this?

Mirza Fakhrul: We already did that. In 2016, we introduced our Vision 2030, outlining reforms of state institutions and economic restructuring. Then, in 2022, we proposed 27 points, followed by 31 points in 2023, which called for fundamental changes.

Daily Sun: What is the future of the July Charter?

Mirza Fakhrul: The July Charter explains the reasons behind the mass uprising. We have cooperated with the government’s proposals and shared our views. There will be no problem with it. It will be finalised.

Daily Sun: What about the reform proposals where consensus has not been reached?

Mirza Fakhrul: In a democracy, differences of opinion are normal. Tolerance is essential. It is natural to have disagreements on certain issues.

Daily Sun: Is there any fear or uncertainty about holding the next election?

Mirza Fakhrul: No. We are satisfied with the interim government’s election preparations. We see no challenge to holding free and fair elections, especially in the absence of the Awami League.

Daily Sun: Some parties, like the NCP, said they will not participate without reforms. What is your view?

Mirza Fakhrul: They are free to express their opinions. That is part of living in a free country where freedom of speech exists.

Daily Sun: Given the current law and order situation, is a free and fair election possible?

Mirza Fakhrul: All the problems will be resolved once the election is held.

Daily Sun: What is your position on army deployment during the polls?

Mirza Fakhrul: We have always supported army deployment. People trust the army. This time, they proved again that they can act at the right time.

Daily Sun: Has BNP decided how many seats to share with alliance partners?

Mirza Fakhrul: We have not discussed that yet. We will decide when the time comes.

Daily Sun: With so many aspirants, will BNP face challenges in nominating candidates?

Mirza Fakhrul: The more aspirants, the more vibrant the democracy.

Daily Sun: The BNP acting chairman announced that a national government would be formed. Will that still happen?

Mirza Fakhrul: A national government cannot include everyone, but only those who were with us in the movement. The spirit of Tarique Rahman’s statement was about jointly implementing the reforms.

Daily Sun: Ahead of the elections, some political parties are speaking out against corruption and extortion. What is your view?

Mirza Fakhrul: We have always taken a firm stance against corruption and extortion. During our time in office, we established the Anti-Corruption Commission. Corruption exists to some extent in almost every country, and responsible governments treat it as a serious challenge. Among all parties, we have been the most vocal and active in opposing corruption and extortion.

Daily Sun: Is BNP struggling to control leaders or activists involved in misconduct?

Mirza Fakhrul: That is a wrong perception. We have already suspended those accused. We will act on any further complaints.

Daily Sun: What is your position on the trial of the Awami League?

Mirza Fakhrul: We want justice for the crimes and persecution the BNP faced. If we come to power, the culprits will be tried.

Daily Sun: Will the election be considered one-sided without the Awami League?

Mirza Fakhrul: I will not call it one-sided. Many parties are already opposing us. The opposition exists.

Daily Sun: Some reform proposals suggest balancing power in government. Will this weaken the state?

Mirza Fakhrul: Democracies evolve, and constitutions must allow for change. Awami League made some parts of the constitution unchangeable, which has led to current calls for reform. They destroyed the democratic structure.

Daily Sun: Who will be the prime minister if the BNP comes to power?

Mirza Fakhrul: The BNP parliamentary party will decide. If Khaleda Zia remains active, that is great. Otherwise, Tarique Rahman will be the next prime minister.

Daily Sun: Do you have any plans involving Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus?

Mirza Fakhrul: No, we have no such plans.

Daily Sun: What will BNP’s foreign policy be, especially regarding India?

Mirza Fakhrul: We are not against any country. We want friendship with all, based on mutual respect, interest and dignity.

Daily Sun: What is your view on the current economic situation?

Mirza Fakhrul: The economy is fragile. Business is down, and US tariffs will affect us further.

Daily Sun: How do you assess the interim government’s performance?

Mirza Fakhrul: The government has done well in many areas, particularly in reforms. In just one year, they have made commendable progress.

Daily Sun: Should reforms be implemented before or after the election?

Mirza Fakhrul: Reforms with consensus can be done before, but we need Parliament for the rest. Elections are the priority.

Daily Sun: When will the BNP’s party council be held?

Mirza Fakhrul: We will set the date when our acting chairman returns. He will be home soon.

Daily Sun: Should the Awami League be banned for genocide?

Mirza Fakhrul: Individuals and the party must be held accountable for genocide and corruption. If BNP returns to power, trials will continue.

Daily Sun: What is your view on mob rule?

Mirza Fakhrul: It is a serious problem and must be stopped at any cost.

Daily Sun: What is your message to the people?

Mirza Fakhrul: Love your country, uphold democracy and ensure the rule of law, without taking justice into your own hands.

Daily Sun: Thank you

Mirza Fakhrul: You are welcome