Opposition parties, including BNP, are organising various protests against the January 7 election and planning to boycott this divisive and farcical event. Anti-government political factions such as BNP, Jamaat, LDP, and Gonotontro Manch distribute leaflets nationwide, including in the capital. Additionally, lawyers are participating in a court boycott across the country. Reports are suggesting that opposition parties, notably BNP, are contemplating excluding Awami League from television talk shows. Several BNP leaders have hinted at such a stance, indicating a potential move in light of the January 7 elections.
BNP leaders believe engaging in television talk shows with Awami League or supporters of the upcoming election, including political figures and intellectuals, serves no purpose. They argue that discussing the divisive and farcical nature of the polls on these platforms only provides an opportunity for the Awami League to whitewash their image. Emphasising the prioritisation of field programmes for the January 7 election, BNP leaders convey their messages through their campaign channels. Additionally, BNP leaders perceive that Awami League representatives and intellectuals supporting the election might feel inadequate if they abstain from participating in these talk shows. The BNP leaders view this as a potential social isolation for them.
A BNP leader, speaking anonymously after participating in a talk show, expressed embarrassment at the aggressive demeanour of Awami League leaders during these televised discussions. The BNP leader highlighted how Awami League representatives showcased their power on screen. Furthermore, the BNP leader noted that some television hosts claimed neutrality but exhibited bias by giving Awami League more speaking time or preference.
The BNP leader criticised Awami League leaders and their supporters for employing absurd rhetoric during discussions, frequently resorting to the topic of 'development.' They also mentioned the strategic decision of BNP leaders to abstain from appearing on two private channels, citing the channels' bigoted approach towards BNP.
The BNP leaders have highlighted that Awami League leaders resort to using not only inaudible but also unacceptable language, not just in speeches but also during televised talk shows, mainly directed towards the acting chairman of the party, Tarique Rahman. BNP consciously refrains from making objectionable comments about the Awami League president, Bangabandhu, or his family or criticising them. Their criticism of Sheikh Hasina is directed at her role as the head of the government, not as an individual. However, BNP leaders point out that Awami League leaders and intellectuals consistently speak offensively about Tarique Rahman, Khaleda Zia, and the late President Ziaur Rahman, founder of the BNP. They further note that these individuals become aggressive when faced with objections or protests.
Several BNP leaders have clarified that while they won't boycott the media or talk shows entirely, they intend to refrain from sharing the platform with Awami League or their supporters. Instead, BNP aims to participate in discussions or television programs with individuals who engage in constructive dialogues or share similar perspectives. They emphasise that discussions or talks with the Awami League and its supporters at this juncture are deemed unnecessary.
BNP's policy revolves around 'no discussion on farcical elections.' They prefer allowing the Awami League to propagate their statements unilaterally, essentially allowing the election narrative to remain one-sided.