Prof Yunus-Tarique meeting begins in London
A high-stake political meeting between Chief Adviser Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus and BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has officially begun in London, amid hopes for a breakthrough in the ongoing political crisis ahead of the general election.
The meeting began at the Dorchester Hotel in London at 2:00 pm Bangladesh time on Friday, said Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder.
The two-hour meeting—expected to be one-on-one but open to expansion if the leaders choose—comes at a time of rising tension over the timing of the next national election.
National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman, along with Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam, received Tarique Rahman upon his arrival at the hotel around 1:50 p.m.
Several hundred leaders and activists from the BNP’s UK Chapter gathered at the meeting venue ahead of the meeting to welcome Tarique.
The high-profile meeting has already sparked significant interest in the country’s political arena. All eyes are now on London, as many see this as a potential turning point in Bangladesh’s political landscape ahead of the upcoming election.
BNP senior leaders and political analysts believe several key issues are likely to be raised.
These include the election timeline, proposed reforms, the July Charter, justice for the victims of the July–August mass uprising, a safe and orderly transfer of power, ratification of decisions made by the interim government, a dignified exit strategy for the interim administration, and the possible return of Tarique Rahman to Bangladesh.
“This is going to be a very important meeting for Bangladesh ahead of the election,” said CA’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam. “One of them is the chief of the interim government, and the other is the chief of the largest political party of Bangladesh.”
The meeting follows Professor Yunus’ recent national address, in which he announced that the 13th general election would be held in the first half of April next year.
The BNP, which has repeatedly demanded the election be held by December this year, reacted with disappointment, calling the decision unilateral and unrealistic.
BNP leaders consider this meeting a significant step towards resolving the deadlock over the election schedule, suggesting that adjusting the timeline will be a central issue in the talks.
BNP insiders believe Tarique Rahman will argue that holding the election in April is not practical, citing weather conditions, Ramadan, and public examinations. A compromise date in January or February may be proposed, should the Chief Adviser show willingness.
Another sensitive issue is the possible return of Tarique Rahman to Bangladesh, ending his 17 years of exile in London.
Though there has been no official confirmation, BNP leaders and social media speculation suggest that his return may take place before August 5. Tarique is also expected to raise concerns about his personal security and may seek necessary arrangements in this regard.
Political analysts, including Dr Kazi Mohammad Mahbubur Rahman of Dhaka University, have warned that the outcome of this meeting could significantly impact the national political climate. “There is no room for failure,” he said, urging both sides to prioritise national interest and reach a workable agreement.
BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed said as this is a top-level meeting between Prof Yunus and Tarique, all major national concerns are expected to be raised, particularly the setting of a suitable date for the general election.
He said the importance of a neutral government, adherence to the rule of law, respect for court rulings, national security, and broader political considerations would also be discussed with much importance.
Salahuddin suggested the meeting could ease political tensions and bridge key differences.
He expressed optimism that Professor Yunus would revise the proposed schedule and agree to a more pragmatic timeline, taking into account weather conditions, Ramadan, and public examinations.