Bangladesh polls: BNP unveils election manifesto emphasising unity, religious freedom, and economic reform

BNP pledges unity, reform, religious freedom

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by Tarique Rahman, son of late former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, has released its manifesto for the upcoming national election scheduled for February 12. The document focuses on nation-building, economic growth, religious freedom, and sustainable development.

The manifesto highlights five major priorities: state reform; socio-economic development and strengthening state capacity; rebuilding and revitalising Bangladesh’s economy; balanced regional development; and measures related to religion, society, sports, and culture.

The BNP pledged to end political and social divisions, emphasising that “we are all Bangladeshis”. It stated that citizens of all faiths—Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, or Christian—will work together to build national unity and an indivisible identity.

Commitment to religious harmony

The manifesto stresses religious freedom, declaring that “religion is individual, the state is for all”. It promises the right to perform religious rituals and celebrate festivals freely, along with strict legal protection for religious minorities.

The announcement comes amid criticism of Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, over attacks on religious minorities, particularly Hindus. In recent months, several Hindus have been lynched by Islamist mobs, and Hindu-owned homes have been set ablaze.

These incidents have further strained ties between New Delhi and Dhaka, with India last week condemning the Yunus-led government for attempting to downplay the communal nature of the violence.

Foreign policy and security priorities

While India is not mentioned in the manifesto, the BNP outlined a foreign policy stance of “Bangladesh Before All: Friend Yes, Master No,” advocating equality and self-respect in international relations.

“Bangladesh will not interfere in other states’ internal matters and will not allow interference in its own matters,” the manifesto affirmed. It promised effective measures to secure fair water shares from the Teesta and Padma Rivers and a firm stance against border killings and smuggling.

The party also pledged to build a ‘Strategic Partnership’ with the Muslim world, strengthen SAARC, pursue ASEAN membership, and maintain a zero-tolerance policy against terrorism, militancy, and extremism. A ‘Made in Bangladesh’ initiative aims to boost self-reliance in defence production.

Governance reforms and anti-corruption drive

The BNP manifesto promised to eliminate inequality and form an inclusive, people-oriented government. “If BNP gets the opportunity to run the state in the upcoming national election, anti-corruption and law and order control will be the top priority,” it stated.

Proposed reforms include reinstating the Caretaker Government System, creating an Upper House in Parliament, and establishing a Vice-President post. It also suggests a 10-year term limit for the Prime Minister.

Justice for crimes committed during the “fascist era” under Sheikh Hasina’s rule, which ended in the July–August 2024 uprising, is also promised. Economic measures include democratisation, increased investment, financial sector reform, and incentives for industrial development to rebuild Bangladesh’s economy.