Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, has started full-scale preparations to return to power in the upcoming national elections. While the party is open to alliances with other political forces, BNP has made it clear that it will not join hands with Jamaat-e-Islami, a party widely seen as fundamentalist.

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed, addressing reporters at his residence in Gulshan on Saturday, categorically ruled out any electoral understanding with Jamaat. “BNP hopes for a fair election under the banner of anti-fascist national unity, which will be historic for the country’s politics,” he said.

Jamaat’s Position

Jamaat-e-Islami, long controversial for its radical ideology, has faced a crackdown under former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Many of its top leaders remain imprisoned. With Hasina now out of the picture, the party is eyeing a return to political relevance, but BNP has distanced itself to avoid being associated with extremism.

BNP’s Alliance Strategy

Salahuddin clarified that while Jamaat is out of the equation, BNP is in dialogue with other parties, including those that participated in the joint anti-government movement. These groups may be part of both the election campaign and the next government. He also hinted at discussions with some pro-Islamist parties, though final decisions are pending.

Elections Must Stay on Schedule

On the issue of the interim government, Salahuddin emphasized that BNP does not want unnecessary complications. He reiterated that once the caretaker system is restored, it can oversee future polls, but the upcoming elections must be held within the announced timeframe.