From Kamrul Islam, DHAKA:
Amid Bangladesh’s ongoing political uncertainty, a highly anticipated meeting is set to take place in London between Dr. Muhammad Yunus, the head of the interim government, and BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman. The meeting is scheduled for Friday between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM local time, according to BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir.
BNP standing committee member and influential Chattogram politician, former minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, is expected to leave for London today (Wednesday) to attend the meeting.
Multiple BNP sources have indicated that this is more than a courtesy meeting—it could mark a significant chapter in outlining a future political understanding and election roadmap.
Ershad Ullah, convener of Chattogram Metropolitan BNP, stated, “Khasru Bhai is likely to depart for London either late Tuesday night or Wednesday morning.” Mohammad Selim, a close aide to Amir Khasru, also confirmed the development.
The Rise of Chattogram Politicians Within BNP
In the current political climate, two senior BNP leaders from Chattogram—Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury and Salahuddin Ahmed—have emerged as central figures in shaping the party’s internal strategies. Both are members of the BNP standing committee and maintain an active presence in national and international political forums.
Interestingly, Dr. Muhammad Yunus, who now leads the interim government, also hails from Chattogram. This shared regional background has created an implicit synergy between BNP’s strategic inner circle and the leadership of the interim authority.
Yunus-Tarique Meeting: A Possible Turning Point in National Politics
BNP leaders believe that the upcoming Yunus-Tarique meeting may become a pivotal moment in Bangladesh’s political trajectory. The discussions are expected to focus on the formation of an election-time government, ensuring administrative neutrality, and promoting political tolerance.
Dr. Yunus’ interim government has gained considerable recognition and acceptance within the international community. Tarique Rahman, on the other hand, continues to lead the BNP from the UK while maintaining active communication with foreign diplomats.
Against this backdrop, Amir Khasru’s presence is seen by political analysts as a strategic move to maintain diplomatic balance between the two sides. He is not only a senior BNP leader but also a seasoned economist and a widely respected diplomat in international circles. His participation in the London meeting ensures what BNP insiders are calling an “intellectual presence” on behalf of the party.
Observers note that Amir Khasru is likely playing the role of facilitator in shaping mutual understanding and laying the groundwork for a possible political framework going forward.
Implications and Potential Outcomes:
The BNP may propose a renewed framework for dialogue following the meeting.
They might outline conditions for participating in the election under the interim government.
Although the meeting is expected to be closed-door, a post-meeting statement or joint declaration may signal a new message to the nation.
The meeting between Dr. Muhammad Yunus and Tarique Rahman is not a spontaneous interaction, but rather a carefully planned element of a broader long-term political arrangement. Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury’s role in this process is undeniably vital. If mutual trust can be established between the BNP and the interim government through this engagement, it could pave the way for a major political compromise and a path toward inclusive elections in Bangladesh.
