Nazrul Islam Khan, member of BNP’s Standing Committee and chairman of the party’s election management committee, said Friday that those contesting the 13th national parliamentary election outside the party’s decision have been urged to withdraw their candidacy.

He warned that if they fail to do so within the stipulated timeframe, the party will take strict organizational measures against them.

Khan made the remarks while speaking to reporters after inaugurating a photo exhibition on the life and work of BNP’s late chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar.

“In a large party like BNP, there are many qualified candidates. Some believed it would be good if the party nominated them, which is why they contested. However, the withdrawal period has not yet ended. We hope they will respect the party’s decision and withdraw their nominations. We have already received news of withdrawals from several places. Those who do not comply will face organizational action,” Khan said.

On Tarique Rahman’s leadership

Speaking on Begum Khaleda Zia’s ideals and Tarique Rahman’s leadership, Khan said: “The national leader left her capable son, Mr. Tarique Rahman, who is now one of the most popular figures in the country. Tarique Rahman has stated that he will continue from where his mother left off. We believe that by embracing the ideals of Shaheed Zia and Khaleda Zia, he will bring positive changes for the country and its people. We hope to receive cooperation from everyone, including the media, in this effort.”

Election law and order

Addressing the recent killings of Swechchhasebak Dal leader of Azizur Rahman Mosabbir, and Sharif Osman Hadi, Khan said: “There are always enemies of good work on the path of democracy. Those who do not want the country’s stability are trying to create unrest. However, the people of this country have been tempered in struggle like pure gold; they cannot be subdued.”

He urged the government to be more active and strategic in maintaining normal law and order ahead of the elections.

Election manifesto and student council polls

Khan said the BNP’s election manifesto drafting committee is currently at work and that the manifesto will be published soon.

On a question about elections in educational institutions, he said: “For many years, our student organization could not function. Another organization operated under the government party’s umbrella for a long period and is now facing the consequences. We do not approve of such tactics. This is a transitional election; it is not the end.”

Earlier, Khan visited a photo exhibition organized by the Bogra Media and Cultural Society (BMCS). He later visited the mausoleum of Ziaur Rahman with members of the organization. BMCS President Marufa Rahman, General Secretary Sujan Mahmud, and other officials were present.