BNP to finalize single candidates for 200 seats this month: Salahuddin

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) will give the “green signal” to single candidates in 200 constituencies within this month, said the party’s Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed.

He shared this information while speaking to the media about current political issues at his residence in Gulshan on Friday (October 24).

Salahuddin Ahmed said, “We agreed with several clauses of the amended RPO (Representation of the People Order). However, under section 20(1), coalition parties were allowed to contest elections under each other’s symbols — most parties agreed to this change. We were hopeful, but the way the RPO was passed will discourage smaller parties from forming alliances. As a result, senior leaders of smaller parties will lose opportunities.”

He questioned, “Why was this passed unilaterally? BNP wants to see a vibrant, multi-party parliament. In the interest of a fair election, we urge reconsideration of this issue.”

Salahuddin further said that BNP has agreed to a “No” vote in constituencies with single candidates to ensure that no one wins uncontested.

He added that BNP will formally send a letter to the Election Commission raising objections to the RPO amendment.

Regarding election preparations ahead of the upcoming national polls, he said, “Within this month, BNP will give the green signal to single candidates in 200 constituencies so they can begin their work.”

He also said, “There are multiple qualified aspirants in each constituency. However, final nominations must be determined through discussions with our allies. Those who do not receive nominations will still be recognized and valued in other ways.”

Salahuddin Ahmed stated, “BNP will work with partners in the anti-fascist movement and other pro-democracy forces to implement the 31-point agenda. Allies will be given due importance in both coalition formation and government formation, and we plan to allocate a fair number of seats to them.”

On party leadership, he said, “Tarique Rahman is in constant communication with leaders and activists, consulting and guiding them. This is an important aspect of leadership. The nomination process is progressing based on those discussions.”

Regarding coalition politics, Salahuddin said, “Talks are ongoing with all parties. We are also in political contact with the NCP. However, it’s too early to say anything definite about forming an alliance — discussions are still underway.”