Dhaka, Feb 27 (V7N) – After a long gap of seven years, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has convened an extended meeting with its grassroots and central leaders, keeping the upcoming elections in mind.

The meeting, being held at the LD Hall and field premises of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban on Thursday (February 27), has seen an overwhelming response, with around 4,000 representatives from across the country in attendance.

Tarique Rahman Presides, Khaleda Zia to Address Virtually

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman is presiding over the meeting, while BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia is set to deliver a virtual speech from London. A seat has been kept vacant on the stage for her, symbolizing her presence.

The meeting is attended by:

  • BNP National Standing Committee members
  • Chairperson's Advisory Council
  • National Executive Committee
  • Leaders from Metropolitan, District, Station, Upazila, and Municipality units
  • Leaders from BNP’s 11 party organs and associate organizations
  • Candidates and nomination aspirants from the 2018 parliamentary elections

First Large-Scale Meeting Since 2018

The last major BNP joint meeting was held on February 4, 2018, at a Dhaka hotel, presided over by Begum Khaleda Zia. Just three days later, on February 8, she was sentenced to prison in the Zia Trust corruption case, marking a turning point for the party.

Agenda and Discussion

Sources indicate that only the acting chairman and secretary general will speak, with no central leader given the floor. Tarique Rahman will conclude the meeting after listening to grassroots leaders' opinions.

BNP leaders and activists are highly enthusiastic, seeing this meeting as a potential turning point for the party’s future political strategy.

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