Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed stated on Thursday that Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman’s upcoming four-day tour of the northern region is a mission of homage, not a violation of the election code of conduct.
Speaking to journalists at the party’s Gulshan office, Salahuddin emphasized that visiting the graves of the July uprising martyrs, including Abu Sayeed, is a profound national responsibility.
He argued that the visit aims to uphold the spirit of the student-led movement and fulfill public expectations, rather than serve as a platform for political campaigning.
Some people may be viewing this tour from different perspectives. Paying proper respect to the martyrs of the 2024 student-led mass uprising is our responsibility and a national responsibility. Our leader Tarique Rahman wanted to do this long ago, but for various reasons the visit could not take place earlier,” he said.
“We uphold the spirit of the mass uprising, and we must elevate that spirit. That is why he is going. From this perspective, there is no issue of violating the election code of conduct,” he added.
Addressing internal party dynamics, Salahuddin acknowledged the disappointment of some capable candidates who were denied nominations due to the complexities of seat-sharing and the goal of ensuring multi-party representation in the next parliament.
He noted that while organizational actions have been taken against those contesting against party decisions, leadership is also working to persuade and reconcile with aggrieved members.
He expressed confidence that these internal matters would be resolved before the polls.
“In a large party like ours, many candidates have expectations. Some became disappointed when they did not receive nominations. In the greater interest, for the sake of seat-sharing and to ensure multi-party representation in parliament, we had to deprive many capable candidates,” he said.
“In some cases, we have taken organisational action, and in other cases, we are trying to convince and calm them down. We hope the matter will be resolved,” he added.
Regarding the overall electoral atmosphere, the BNP leader dismissed concerns that isolated incidents of violence would derail the process.
He asserted that all major political parties have reached a consensus on the importance of holding the 13th National Parliament Election 2026.
Salahuddin concluded by urging any party with grievances regarding a level playing field to approach the Election Commission, expressing his belief that both the government and the commission are committed to delivering a fair and credible election.
With Inputs from UNB
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