Leftist alliance meets BNP’s Tarique Rahman to discuss election, extremism

Leaders of the Democratic United Front, a newly formed alliance of nine left-leaning parties, met with BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Sunday (Jan. 5) to discuss Bangladesh's political stability and the upcoming national election.

The meeting, held at the BNP Chairperson’s office in Gulshan, focused on the country's deteriorating law-and-order situation, economic challenges, and the rising threat of religious extremism.

Solidarity and Political Strategy The delegation primarily visited to offer condolences following the death of Rahman’s mother, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who passed away on Dec. 30. Rahman recently returned to Bangladesh on Dec. 25 after 17 years in exile. "We expressed our solidarity with the bereaved family and the party," said Bazlur Rashid Firoz, General Secretary of the Socialist Party of Bangladesh (BASD). Beyond condolences, the groups discussed the importance of a transparent electoral process. The Democratic United Front emphasized that anti-independence forces must be excluded from the political landscape.

A Vision for a Liberal State According to alliance leaders, Rahman reaffirmed that the 1971 Liberation War remains the nation's foundation. He outlined a vision for a "liberal, democratic, and welfare-oriented state" that prioritizes the aspirations of the 1990 and 2024 mass uprisings. "Tarique Rahman noted that while political parties will always have differences, dialogue is essential on matters of national interest," Firoz said. "He welcomed criticism, calling it a vital component of a functioning democracy." Rahman also clarified that no formal discussions have taken place regarding a "national government" with Jamaat-e-Islami, despite recent public speculation.

A New Alliance The Democratic United Front was established on Nov. 29, bringing together progressive parties—including the CPB, BASD, and Bangladesh JASAD—to act as a third force ahead of the 13th parliamentary election, currently scheduled for February 2026.