The seven-party, four-party and 20-party coalitions of the BNP were mostly right-wing parties. As the 20-party alliance became almost defunct, it swung towards the center and joined the ethnic Oikya Front led by Dr. Kamal Hussain, but failed to win the 2018 elections and went into political wilderness.
This time, with elections only a year away, the BNP aims to oust the Sheikh Hasina administration while seeking a caretaker government in time for the elections. Its allies also demand the resignation of the Awami League government.
“In fact, the 20-party coalition does not exist as it was before. Our goal now is to build the movement together,” said BNP policymaker Nazrul Islam Khan.
The main opposition party is also trying to garner support from the Left parties. Some left-wing and centre-right parties recently formed the Republic Forum and held talks with the BNP to find common goals.
On Thursday, 12 of the 20 parties of the BNP-led coalition announced new alliances.
“I have heard that another new alliance of seven parties will be formed. These alliances and political partnerships have one objective – to topple the fascist, unelected government and hold free and fair elections. May be these platforms are being built simultaneously to strengthen the movement,” said Nazrul.