UK BNP President M A Malek Returns to Bangladesh After 19 Years: Party Leaders and Activists Enthusiastic

Saifur Rahman, Dhaka, 13 October 2024: After a long 19 years, M A Malek, the President of the UK BNP and Adviser to the BNP Chairperson, is set to return to Bangladesh. He will arrive at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on the afternoon of October 13. BNP’s central and local leaders and activists have made extensive preparations to welcome him. Upon his return, his first stop will be to pay his respects at the grave of BNP’s founder and former President Ziaur Rahman, where he will offer special prayers. After visiting the grave, he will proceed to BNP’s central office in Naya Paltan to meet with senior party leaders.

Active Role in Movements and Life in Exile

M A Malek has been unable to return to Bangladesh since 2005, mainly due to the pressure from the Awami League government, which forced him into exile. His family also faced persecution under the Awami League regime. Malek claims that he was not granted permission to bring back the bodies of his mother, father, and younger brother for burial in Bangladesh, which left a deep impact on his personal life. Nevertheless, from the UK, he continued to lead movements for the BNP and played a crucial role in garnering international support for the party.

Rejecting Sheikh Hasina’s Offer of Talks in Washington

During Sheikh Hasina’s visit to the United Nations in 2023, M A Malek led a protest program organized by the BNP in Washington. At that time, Sheikh Hasina extended an offer for talks, which he outright rejected. He reaffirmed his commitment to continuing the movement for the restoration of democracy. According to him, the BNP’s core objective should be to restore democracy in Bangladesh and ensure the rights of the people.

His Reaction to Returning to the Country

Regarding his return to Bangladesh after 19 years, M A Malek shared, “I am overwhelmed with emotion. My mother’s last wish was to be buried in her homeland. However, due to the obstacles imposed by the Sheikh Hasina government, I was unable to fulfill that wish. Similarly, I couldn’t bring my father’s and younger brother’s bodies for burial in Bangladesh. I am deeply grateful to finally be able to return home after so many years.”

Future Plans and Message to Party Activists

Upon his return, M A Malek is expected to deliver a significant message to party activists. Many BNP leaders and activists were inspired by his leadership in exile during the party’s difficult times. He will meet with the central leadership of the BNP and plan future programs after his return.

Sylhet Visit and Meetings with the Party

M A Malek will travel to Sylhet on October 17, where BNP leaders and activists eagerly await his arrival. He will stay there for two weeks and engage in discussions with local party leaders and activists.

Party leaders and activists believe that M A Malek’s return to Bangladesh will bring new energy and momentum to BNP’s political landscape.