Amid speculation regarding its future after being ousted by a student-led uprising, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir believes that neither should the Awami League (AL) be barred from participating in the upcoming national election nor banned as a fascist political party, as both actions would undermine democratic practices.
In an interview with UNB, he, however, expressed skepticism about the AL's prospects for a strong comeback in the political landscape, asserting that the party has become politically bankrupt and increasingly isolated from the public and younger generations due to its anti-people activities and heavy reliance on state forces and bureaucracy during its time in power.
He also urged political parties to remain vigilant and act responsibly, expressing concerns about a potential 1/11-style depoliticisation plot orchestrated by both local and international actors.
This is the first report of a three-part series based on the interview with Fakhrul, in which he discussed a wide range of topics, including the current political situation, government reform initiatives, the upcoming national election, BNP's future plans, and the party's council.
"Why should the Awami League be excluded from the polls if we truly want democracy? If an old political party like AL wants to participate in the polls, people should have the chance to determine their fate," Fakhrul said, expressing his disagreement with those advocating for barring the AL from the upcoming national election.
Based on his understanding and perceptions of the AL, the BNP leader said it is likely that the party will take part in the election under the current interim government. "After such a big incident and a changeover in 1975, AL didn't boycott the election. It joined the polls and, I think, that was the right strategy for the party."
Fakhrul said boycotting elections is not always the right approach for democratic parties. "While elections can sometimes be boycotted as part of a movement, as we have done, that was a valid decision. However, when a party faces challenges, there are several avenues for recovery and participating in elections is one of those paths that should be pursued to move forward."
