Political analyst and presenter Zillur Rahman has said that people across the country are gripped by deep concern and anxiety, particularly in the capital Dhaka, over what may unfold on 13 November. According to him, there has been no political compromise so far, and uncertainty continues to dominate the situation. He noted that Jamaat has already warned of announcing a hard-line protest programme and paralysing Dhaka if its demands are not met.
Zillur Rahman made these remarks in a recent video posted on his YouTube channel.
He said that the Awami League is also reportedly planning a lockdown programme on the same day. Media reports have spoken of alleged sabotage plots, further intensifying public fear. In addition, 13 November is expected to see the announcement of the verdict date in a case involving former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. “Taken together, these developments have created extreme anxiety among ordinary citizens, especially residents of Dhaka,” he said.
Zillur Rahman pointed out that the seven-day deadline earlier set by the government has already expired. Now, the responsibility lies squarely with the government to take a decision. “What decision will the government take? Earlier, it was said that an imposition would be made. Whatever decision is taken, it will inevitably favour one side over another,” he observed.
He further said that over the past two or three days, discussions have been taking place behind the scenes suggesting that the government may attempt to appease both sides. According to this speculation, the BNP could be appeased by holding the national parliamentary election and a referendum on the same day. Jamaat, on the other hand, might be placated by introducing proportional representation (PR) in the upper house.
However, Zillur Rahman questioned whether such a PR system would be acceptable to the BNP and whether the party would agree to it at all.
He added that the NCP is demanding an order on the July Charter and will decide whether to sign only after reviewing it. Jamaat, meanwhile, remains firm on its demand that the referendum be held first. Jamaat leaders, he said, do not believe they would achieve their desired outcome if the referendum and the general election were held on the same day. Summing up the situation, Zillur Rahman said, “The reality is that Jamaat is currently passing through the most critical phase in its political history.”
GLIVE/TSN