Tension mounts in the political landscape as the country is going t witness a clash of rallies between the ruling Awami League and the major opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) today.
However, both the ruling and opposition parties repeatedly committed themselves to maintain peace and avoid direct confrontations.
The leaders and activists of the BNP commenced their gathering in front of the party's central office at Nayapaltan in the capital from Friday noon, without initially receiving police permission. However, in a last-minute development, the authorities granted permission to the BNP to conduct their rally at the desired location at Nayapaltan. The decision comes amidst heightened tensions as both the BNP and the Awami League prepare for massive gatherings, each vying for attention and support.
BNP has remained steadfast in its call for the resignation of the current government and the establishment of a neutral election-time government, which are totally unconstitutional. With the approval of the police, the BNP rally is expected to proceed as planned, serving as a platform for the party to amplify its message and galvanize public support to their cause.
In response, the Awami League decided to hold its own massive rally near the Baitul Mukarram Mosque, close to the BNP's proposed location. Amid concerns of possible clashes, the ruling party has strategically positioned its leaders and workers throughout Dhaka city to prevent any disruption to their own gathering.
The heightened tensions have prompted both the parties to assure to the public that they will not engage in any form of violence. However, accusations and counter-accusations between the two sides have added fuel to the already tense atmosphere.
Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan confirmed on Friday evening that
BNP has got permission to organise their rally in front of the party office at Naya Paltan in the capital on Saturday.
DMP Commissioner Habibur Rahaman also confirmed that both AL and BNP have been given permission to hold their rallies at their desired venues with some conditions.
Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader, in a press conference at the party's central office, raised concerns about the BNP collaborating with communal forces and instigating violence during the rally.
"BNP has sinister motives. They can resort to violence by joining hands with a communal force. For this reason, Awami League leaders and activists must be on constant alert," Quader asserted, emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance among party members.
In response to the allegations, BNP leaders have maintained their commitment to a peaceful demonstration.
Law Minister Anisul Haque also alleged that BNP is trying to foil the upcoming national election by all costs.
"Bangladesh is now in a prestigious position in the world due to the continuous development work of the present government. But BNP-Jamaat can't tolerate the success of the government. So, they are trying to foil the upcoming national election by hook or by crook," Anisul said.
Besides, at a press conference BNP Secretary General, Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir pointed fingers at the "provocation" of the leaders of the ruling party and said, "We have held a number of programmes here [Nayapaltan]. Leaders and activists were arrested, our office was raided. However, we remained firm on our position. Our goal is to oust the government with a peaceful movement."
He said the government and law enforcers have to take responsibility for any untoward situation due to their excesses.
"BNP observed programmes peacefully and will observe [programmes] peacefully." he added.
"We will hold a peaceful rally as we have repeatedly stated earlier. Our intention is to advocate for a just cause, not to incite violence," said BNP joint secretary general Syed Moazzem Hossain Alal.
The city of Dhaka remains on edge as security forces are on high alert to ensure the safety of the public and the smooth conduct of both rallies. With two major political parties standing firm on their respective stances, the nation awaits the outcome of these gatherings, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the current political deadlock.