In the wake of the recent change in political power, a notable shift is taking place within Bangladesh's political landscape. As the country moves toward national elections, numerous leaders and activists from the former ruling Awami League are reportedly joining opposition parties - the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami.
BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, while addressing a discussion in Dhaka commemorating the 89th birth anniversary of the party's founder, President Ziaur Rahman, acknowledged the influx of former Awami League affiliates into the BNP.
"Many individuals, once beneficiaries of the ousted Awami League regime, are now trying to align with the BNP," said Tarique in his virtual remarks. "However, we must not forget their past. Those responsible for political repression cannot be handed key positions in our party."
Tarique Rahman emphasized that the BNP's long struggle should not be compromised by admitting those who did not support the movement during difficult times. He also urged party leaders to exercise caution and uphold the founding ideology of the BNP.
Meanwhile, local BNP activists expressed mixed reactions. While some view the integration of former adversaries as a strategic move ahead of elections, others remain skeptical about their loyalty. "They want to join now, but they were silent during the years of oppression," said a senior BNP organizer in Chattogram.
On the other hand, Jamaat-e-Islami leaders are reportedly more reluctant to welcome former Awami League members into their fold. While some local Jamaat leaders claim to have "forgiven" past actions by the Awami League, they remain hesitant about including outsiders in leadership positions.
The shift comes amid growing political uncertainty. Following the mass uprising in July-August and the subsequent fall of Sheikh Hasina's government, the interim administration hinted at holding elections earlier than scheduled, potentially in February instead of mid-April. The Election Commission, however, has yet to confirm the date officially.
Within the BNP, concerns remain about whether Jamaat will field candidates for all 300 parliamentary seats or adopt an alternative electoral strategy. Jamaat, meanwhile, has expressed apprehensions that if elections are held before key reforms are enacted, public expectations may not be met - even if the BNP comes to power.
Commenting on internal party structure, BNP Standing Committee member and Chattogram Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain said: "We've made it clear - those who joined the party after August 5 should not expect important roles.
Leadership should remain with those who have endured and led the movement for the past 16 years."
As party dynamics evolve and alliances shift, both BNP and Jamaat now face the challenge of balancing strategic growth with organizational loyalty - all in preparation for a high-stakes national election.
