Why is BNP Demanding Elections by December?

 Why is BNP Demanding Elections by December? 

BNP has issued an ultimatum for elections to be held by December: What factors are contributing to this pressure, and what is the government's position? This is a comprehensive analysis of internal conflicts, conspiracy theories, and the ongoing power struggle.

The forthcoming national election has emerged as the primary subject of conversation within Bangladeshi politics. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), a significant political entity, has put forth an ultimatum, asserting that national elections must occur by December. Tarique Rahman, the acting chairman of the party, announced this at a rally in Naya Paltan, Dhaka, igniting renewed discussion in the political landscape. However, what motivates the BNP to demand elections by December, and to what extent can they genuinely apply pressure? The response is rooted in a complicated network of factors and detailed political strategies.

What is the Reason Behind BNP's Call for December Elections?

1. Desire for Quick Assumption of Power:

With the Awami League currently out of power, the BNP perceives that it has no formidable opponent in the electoral arena at this moment. This has instilled a strong belief among party leaders and activists that they will secure victory in the election if it occurs soon. Their main goal is to take advantage of this perceived prime opportunity to regain power.

2. Addressing Cadre Misconduct:

The anticipation of soon-to-be power has resulted in a rise in extortion, illegal land acquisition, and aggressive behavior among BNP cadres, from urban centers to rural regions. This is damaging the BNP's reputation among the general populace and attracting considerable criticism. The party's senior leadership is concerned that the longer the election is postponed, the more challenging it will be to manage these activists, and such unlawful activities will only intensify. A prompt election would assist them in avoiding this adverse situation.

3. "Conspiracy Theory" and Distrust of the Government:

A "conspiracy theory" is being propagated within the BNP. They are concerned that Chief Advisor Professor Muhammad Yunus exhibits favoritism towards the Jatiya Nagorik Party (NCP), which promotes reforms and the prosecution of Awami League leaders prior to elections. In the meantime, Jamaat-e-Islami is taking an opportunistic approach. The BNP claims that the government is attempting to incite these parties against the BNP and extend the election timeline to maintain its grip on power.

4. Perceived Weakness of the Interim Government:

The BNP contends that the existing interim government has not succeeded in maintaining law and order or managing the economy effectively. They assert that the government is resorting to "conspiracy theories" as a means to obscure its shortcomings and is trying to postpone the elections. The BNP is seeking to capitalize on these perceived deficiencies to advocate for a December election.

Government's Position and the Chief Advisor's Function

Despite the ultimatum from the BNP, the government has not provided an immediate reply. Chief Advisor Professor Muhammad Yunus, during his visit to Japan, reaffirmed the government's earlier stance of conducting elections between December and June. A communication from the Advisor's Council suggested that the government would not extend its tenure beyond June 30 of the following year, implicitly indicating that a December election is improbable. Analysts speculate that the government may be seeking additional time for essential reforms.

The recent turmoil regarding Professor Yunus's potential resignation prompted him to engage in discussions with various political factions. Although the immediate crisis has eased, an underlying tension remains, and a considerable gap persists between the government and significant stakeholders, particularly the BNP and the military.

Is the BNP Facing Isolation?

Discrepancies between the BNP and other political entities concerning the election schedule have become apparent. Jamaat, NCP, and the majority of Islamist parties do not endorse a December election. They support the government's position of conducting elections between December and June. While some leftist parties are in agreement with the BNP, their political clout is minimal.

Nevertheless, the BNP maintains that even if it faces isolation, it will persist in exerting pressure on the government for a December election. Their approach includes democratic initiatives such as rallies and mass gatherings to urge the government. They contend that their collaboration is vital for the government's continuity, and the absence of such cooperation would place the government under considerable strain.

Political Unrest and Distrust

The recent dialogue regarding the Chief Advisor's possible resignation, along with the Army Chief's remarks advocating for elections by December, has sparked political upheaval. Although the immediate strain has subsided following Professor Yunus's discussions, a sense of unease remains.

The BNP has called for the resignation of advisors Asif Mahmud Shajib Bhuiyan and Mahfuz Alam, in addition to National Security Advisor Khalilur Rahman. Notably, Asif Mahmud attended the Chief Advisor's meeting with BNP officials. BNP leaders perceive this as a display of governmental arrogance and a dismissal of their requests. They further accuse the government of reprimanding the BNP and the army, which exacerbates distrust and deepens the divide.

Political analysts observe the government's apparent vulnerabilities across various domains. The persistent skepticism and distrust among key government stakeholders indicate that instability or tension may re-emerge. Analysts stress the importance of achieving consensus among all parties involved, including the government and its stakeholders, to ensure the conduct of fair and peaceful elections in this precarious climate.

Source: BBC

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