NN Online:
As the BNP prepares to launch a two-month nationwide membership drive starting May 15, the party has extended an invitation to former Awami League members who have grown disillusioned and distanced themselves in protest against their party’s actions.
At a press briefing held at BNP’s Nayapaltan central office, Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi emphasized that while the party welcomes new members from all walks of life, it will remain vigilant to block entry of individuals involved in terrorism, land grabbing, money laundering, or corruption.
In response to questions from journalists about allowing Awami League members to join BNP, Rizvi said, “If someone has been inactive in politics for some time or previously supported the Awami League but has since rejected its misrule, brutality, and corruption—why shouldn’t they be allowed to join us?”
Rizvi clarified that BNP’s primary focus is on attracting individuals with clean reputations and public trust—retired professionals, teachers, public servants, bankers, NGO workers, farmers, and labourers—who believe in BNP’s ideals.
“Membership is open to those who share our nationalist values and principles,” he added, assuring that a thorough verification process would be in place to prevent infiltration by criminal elements.
To join, prospective members must purchase a primary membership form for Tk 20 and complete an application affidavit, as specified in the party constitution. These forms will be subject to review to ensure candidates meet the party’s standards.
The membership and renewal drive will run from May 15 to July 15. Rizvi noted that a sub-committee, led by himself and BNP Treasurer Rashiduzzaman Millat, has been formed to oversee the campaign.
