Zillur Rahman Sees No Election, Political Turmoil Looms Ahead

Renowned television presenter and journalist Zillur Rahman has voiced profound scepticism regarding the likelihood of any imminent election in Bangladesh. In a forthright assessment of the nation’s current political landscape, he suggested that the country is far from being in an election-ready state. Instead, he cautioned that Bangladesh may be on the verge of heightened unrest, mass gatherings, and a cascade of unforeseen developments in the near future.

In a video message uploaded to his YouTube channel on Saturday night (20 December), Zillur elaborated on his perspective. He highlighted the growing calls for what he described as a “revolutionary government,” which he said have become increasingly vocal in recent months. “I foresaw such developments well in advance,” he remarked, “yet many continue to place hope in elections that, in reality, are unlikely to occur under the present circumstances. There is much yet to unfold. When and why millions of people may converge on Dhaka—whether in sorrow, anger, or celebration—I do not speculate. The simple truth is, I see no election on the horizon.”

Zillur also addressed the recent assassination of Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent leader of the July uprising, spokesperson for the Inquilab Platform, and a potential independent candidate for Dhaka-8. Reflecting on the tragedy, he observed: “Every loss is profound, sorrowful, and deeply tragic. Official honours, state declarations of mourning, or grand funerals cannot truly ease the pain borne by grieving families. Despite formal statements, questions persist regarding the extent of the state’s responsibility in such events.”

He went on to discuss the perils of speaking out in a politically charged environment. While acknowledging that his commentary has occasionally led to tension, even among close associates, Zillur emphasised his unwavering commitment to truth through writing and public statements. “Many of the scenarios I warned about years ago have since materialised, often in ways more severe than anticipated,” he said.

Paying tribute to the heroes of the July–August uprising, he singled out Abu Saeed for his courage in the face of armed threats, describing such defiance as emblematic of the uprising itself. “Society must reflect on whether it has sufficiently honoured these sacrifices,” he urged.

Concluding, Zillur offered a trenchant critique of the nation’s current political climate, noting the relentless mutual attacks between parties and factions. “It is essential to recognise past injustices and confront wrongdoing in the present. Those who were once silent now speak loudly, while many avoid defending their rights, casting blame elsewhere. The contradiction is stark,” he remarked.