BNP Responsible for Safeguarding National Party: Shamim Patwary

Khabor Wala Desk

Published: 2nd September 2025, 8:54 AM

BNP Responsible for Safeguarding National Party: Shamim Patwary

Barrister Shamim Haider Patwary, Secretary General of the National Party, has stated that it is the responsibility of the BNP to protect the National Party in the interest of the country and politics. He made these remarks while participating in a recent talk show.

Key Statements by Shamim Patwary

Protecting the National Party: Patwary emphasised that, for the sake of democracy, the BNP must safeguard the National Party. He noted that while many have called for the National Party to be banned, the BNP has so far avoided this trap, for which he expressed gratitude. He added that what happens in the future will be determined by time.
Political Implications of a Ban: According to Patwary, if the National Party is banned, parliamentary seats would likely be redistributed among three main parties: BNP 200, another party 50, and a third party 50. Such a scenario could lead smaller parties to pressure the BNP for additional seats or advantages, potentially reducing it to a puppet party. Therefore, it is in BNP’s interest to ensure the National Party survives.

Issue	Patwary’s Perspective
Cooling Period	Political cooling periods are essential. Responsible action by BNP will benefit the country, the party, and the public. He referenced how Ziaur Rahman revitalised all political parties upon assuming power.
Military Chief	The current military chief is not inclined to seize power or declare emergency. He could have done so on the 5th of a month, but refrained. Patwary noted that Nobel laureate economist Amartya Sen also commended the military chief for not taking power.
Governance	Patwary remarked that the current governance is weak, the government lacks responsibility, and the country faces a constitutional crisis.
Sports Advisor Criticism	He also commented on Asif Mahmud Sajeeb Bhuiya, the government’s sports advisor, saying that criticising the government constitutes a constitutional violation. Article 55(3) of the Constitution stipulates that the entire cabinet is collectively responsible to Parliament, and no cabinet member may openly criticise the government.

Shamim Patwary’s remarks underline the BNP’s pivotal role in preserving the National Party as a safeguard against political instability. He stressed the importance of responsible political conduct, constitutional adherence, and maintaining a political cooling period to reduce the risk of authoritarian or unconstitutional measures.