‘India-Bangladesh ties should move forward beyond Sheikh Hasina’: Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir

Exclusive interview/Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, secretary general, Bangladesh Nationalist Party

Following the passing of Bangladesh’s first female prime minister, Begum Khaleda Zia, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party has turned to seasoned leaders such as Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, a long-time aide to the family of party founder Ziaur Rahman and a senior statesman within the BNP. As the party prepares for national elections amid the post-Sheikh Hasina transition, Alamgir insists the party will avoid any post-poll alliance with the Jamaat-e-Islami. In an exclusive interview with THE WEEK, he outlines the BNP’s reform agenda, its approach to India and its vision for Bangladesh’s political future. Excerpts:

With elections just a few days away, how confident are you about free, fair and participatory polls?

People in Bangladesh want an election that is free, fair and participatory. For nearly 15 years, citizens were effectively denied their right to vote. There is an entire generation—young people between 18 and 30—who have never truly experienced voting. Naturally, there is strong aspiration among voters to finally exercise that right. I believe voter turnout will be quite good. I do not anticipate any major unrest or serious obstacles that could undermine the election process. The Election Commission is functioning responsibly and the government appears sincere about holding the polls. In our subcontinent, some problems during election campaigns are always present, but I do not think they are severe enough to obstruct a free and fair election. Political parties are actively campaigning and everything is set for people to vote.

There is speculation about a pre-poll or post-poll alliance to form a national unity government. 

During the last 15 years, when we were fighting against an authoritarian regime, we built alliances with several like-minded political parties, both from the left and the right. Altogether, nearly 20–24 political parties stood together with the BNP in that struggle. When we announced our 31-point reform agenda, we clearly stated that if we formed the government, it would be a consensus-based government involving those parties that stood with us during the democratic movement. That commitment remains. However, parties that were not part of that struggle will not be included.

Does that include the Jamaat-e-Islami?

No. We have no agreement with the Jamaat-e-Islami and I do not see the Jamaat being part of a BNP-led national government.

Why did the BNP not form an alliance with the National Citizen Party formed by the students?

We tried. But the NCP demanded a large number of seats, which was not feasible. We are confident our candidates can win those seats, but we are not sure NCP candidates can win with a completely new symbol. In Bangladesh, symbols matter a great deal in elections.

This election is also different because the Awami League is not participating. 

I cannot say with certainty. What I know is that some independent candidates previously associated with the Awami League may contest. According to reports, Sheikh Hasina instructed her party not to participate. The election process is already underway and people are prepared to vote. I do not think the Awami League’s absence will significantly affect the election. Ideally, they should have re-emerged with new leadership and a new image, but that did not happen, and now there is no scope for it, as Sheikh Hasina does not allow alternative leadership within the party.

Tarique Rahman’s return has generated attention. 

There is tremendous momentum. His return has created genuine excitement, particularly among young people. In his first address, he laid out a clear vision focused on human development. He emphasised women’s empowerment, farmer welfare and employment. The proposed farmer card system would ensure fair prices for inputs and better returns for produce. He committed to creating employment for at least one crore young people within 18 months and outlined mechanisms to achieve this. Judicial independence is another core commitment. Press freedom will be fully restored. On constitutional reform, he proposed limiting the prime minister to a maximum of two terms and establishing a balance of power between the prime minister and the president. Education reform will focus on need-based schooling and merit-based higher education. Health care reform is also central, with a commitment to building an effective and accessible health system. 

There is growing anti-India sentiment in political discourse. What issues need immediate resolution?

First, water-sharing issues must be resolved sincerely, not just discussed. Second, border killings must stop. This is unacceptable in any civilised society. Third, trade issues need fair handling. The recent cricket-related incident was unfortunate and unnecessary. It triggered reactions on both sides. These matters should be addressed through immediate dialogue, keeping sovereignty, self-respect and mutual trust in mind. Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar’s visit during Begum Khaleda Zia’s bereavement was a positive gesture. 

How big is the Sheikh Hasina factor going forward, especially in India-Bangladesh relations?

She is a factor, but not an insurmountable one. Sheikh Hasina created this crisis by dismantling democratic institutions and centralising power. In the long run, she will not remain relevant in politics. Relations between India and Bangladesh can and should move forward beyond her.

Finally, has Bangladesh gone soft on Pakistan despite the unresolved issue of 1971?

Pakistan must apologise for the 1971 genocide. That remains our position. At the same time, all neighbouring countries must work together for regional development and the welfare of their people.