In an unusual move within Bangladesh’s typically confrontational political landscape, BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman held a meeting with Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman and National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam yesterday, signaling a spirit of cooperation ahead of the upcoming government transition.
Tarique, expected to assume the role of prime minister this week, visited the political office of the Jamaat chief at his Bashundhara residence around 7:10 pm.
Welcoming the BNP leader with a bouquet, Shafiqur engaged in a nearly 45-minute discussion, seen as a positive political step post-election, as noted by BNP Media Cell member Atikur Rahman Rumon.
Accompanying Tarique were BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Standing Committee member Nazrul Islam Khan, Jamaat Nayeb-e-Ameer Abdullah Muhammad Taher, and Jamaat Assistant Secretary General and Central Publicity and Media Secretary Advocate Ahsanul Mahboob Zubair.
Following the meeting, Shafiqur shared photos on his official Facebook page at 7:40 pm, extending advance congratulations to Tarique on his anticipated prime ministerial election victory in Bangladesh.
Describing the visit as a pivotal moment in the nation’s political journey, Shafiqur emphasized a commitment to constructive engagement, institutional maturity, and mutual respect.
He expressed readiness to collaborate on national interests while upholding the opposition’s constitutional duty firmly and principledly. Shafiqur highlighted the importance of accountability, public welfare, and the parliament’s role in safeguarding justice, citizens’ rights, and national progress.
Jamaat Nayeb-e-Ameer Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher commended the meeting as a positive step towards a new political culture, asserting Jamaat’s stance as a robust opposition party rather than joining a national government.
Taher stressed the need for attention to law and order, public security, and basic necessities like food, shelter, and education, which were key points discussed during the interaction.
After concluding his visit to Shafiqur’s place, Tarique proceeded to meet Nahid at his residence on Bailey Road in the capital at 8:30 pm. Greeted with a floral wreath, they engaged in discussions, joined by NCP Member Secretary Akhter Hossen and Northern Region Chief Organiser Sarjis Alam.
As Tarique left Nahid’s residence, local residents, including women and children, welcomed him, presenting flowers, books, and chocolates.
In a subsequent press conference, NCP Member Secretary Akhter Hossain highlighted the importance of collaboration despite internal differences, emphasizing discussions on national reforms and justice during the meeting.
When asked about potential involvement in a BNP-led cabinet, Akhter clarified that the meeting was a post-election courtesy visit, and such matters were not deliberated.
These meetings followed Tarique’s call for unity and cooperation among all political parties for the nation’s benefit. With BNP securing 209 seats, Jamaat 68, and NCP 6 in the recent national election, BNP is poised to form the government.
The swearing-in of the newly elected MPs is scheduled for February 17 at 10:00 am at the South Plaza of Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, with the cabinet’s inauguration set for 4:00 pm at the same location, as confirmed by Law Adviser Asif Nazrul.
