Dhaka, 18 February 2025: BNP has claimed that international pressure on Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has increased after a recent United Nations report mentioned human rights violations, a crisis in democracy, and political repression in Bangladesh.
BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said, “"The international community, including the United Nations, is expressing concern about the suppression of opposition, human rights violations, and electoral irregularities in the country. This has put pressure on Sheikh Hasina's government. It is not possible to remain in power by suppressing the people."
BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman said in a virtual speech from London, “"Our struggle to restore democracy and the people's right to vote will continue. The time of those who are in power by force is running out."
He also said, “"All kinds of political and diplomatic efforts are underway to normalize the political environment in the country, re-establish democratic rights, and return exiled BNP leaders to the country."
BNP leaders believe that Sheikh Hasina's government will not be able to sustain its unilateral rule if pressure from international circles, including the United Nations, increases. The party has said, "The democratic world will stand by the struggle of the people of Bangladesh. The international community must be informed that one-party rule is currently underway in Bangladesh."
The ruling party has denied the allegations, saying that BNP is spreading propaganda to destabilize the country. Ruling party leaders say, "Bangladesh's politics and democracy are internal matters. Intervention by foreign powers is undesirable."
Analysts believe that as international pressure continues to mount, the government may have to compromise on policy at least to some extent. However, the government's tough stance risks prolonging the political deadlock in the country.
