Jamaat Cannot Win Elections Despite Organisation: Mirza Fakhrul

Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Secretary General of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has stated that although Jamaat has come into the limelight since the July mass uprising, it has failed to make a significant impact on public opinion. He also emphasised that, despite being well-organised, Jamaat is unlikely to secure electoral victories.

Speaking to Bangladeshi journalists in New York on Friday, 26 September (local time), Mirza Fakhrul noted that the political activities of the ousted Awami League are banned and the National Party is in a similarly restricted position, which, in his view, places Jamaat in a strategically advantageous position.

He commented: “Jamaat has come into the limelight by all means. Through media exposure and organisational activities, they are trying to reach a certain level, and they will continue to do so.”

However, Fakhrul stressed that Jamaat has not gained significant influence among the public. Drawing from his own field experience, he said: “I am directly involved in grassroots politics, I travel, I observe, and I don’t see much impact [on public sentiment].”

Highlighting Jamaat’s organisational capacity as a positive factor, Fakhrul explained that their disciplined structure and access to substantial funds are advantages. He remarked: “Their strength lies in being highly organised, regimented politically, and well-funded. This is their plus point. But I do not believe they can win elections outright among the people.”

Mirza Fakhrul also drew parallels with the global rise of right-wing politics, noting that Bangladesh is not isolated from these trends. Yet, he expressed confidence that such efforts will not translate into electoral success on the ground in Bangladesh.

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