Criticism has mounted against the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) government over its handling of relations with opposition groups and the implementation of key political reforms outlined in the July charter. Southern region political leader Hasnat Abdullah accused the government of breaching 17 provisions of the charter in the past seven months, highlighting failures to amend the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Act, establish an independent police commission, guarantee judicial independence, and implement asset disclosure requirements for judges and court staff.
Hasnat also pointed to a lack of transparency in public procurement processes and delays in investigating officials accused of involvement in genocide and electoral fraud. While the BNP accepted the results of the February 12 general election, Hasnat noted that the party has refused to acknowledge the referendum verdict or take the oath required to join the constitution reform council, further stalling progress.
Concerns about political unity were raised by Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis Ameer Mamunul Haque, who accused the BNP of attempting to fragment the coalition that emerged during the July uprising. He said the BNP has specifically targeted Islamist parties in efforts to create division within the alliance.
Other political figures underscored the importance of honoring the agreements reached under the July charter. Liberal Democratic Party Chairman Oli Ahmed emphasized that the charter was formulated through political consensus and urged the BNP to fulfill its commitments. AB Party Chairman Mojibur Rahman Monju cautioned that failure to implement the charter’s provisions and address pressing issues such as rising commodity prices and the ongoing energy crisis could provoke public protests. The discussion was moderated by AB Party General Secretary Asaduzzaman Fuad.
The criticism reflects ongoing tensions within Bangladesh’s political landscape as opposition parties demand greater accountability and adherence to reform agreements intended to strengthen democratic governance and public trust.