In the meantime, tensions flared between the BNP and government and conflict with the National Citizen Party (NCP) over not administering the oath of BNP leader Ishraque Hossain as mayor of Dhaka South City Corporation though the court pronounced a verdict in favour of Ishraque.
In such a context, Tarique Rahman, joining virtually, from a grand rally at Naya Paltan on 28 May, stressed that the national election must be held by December.
Later, the chief adviser announced the tentative date of the election which did not satisfy the top leaders of the BNP. Following this, the meeting between Tarique Rahman and professor Yunus in London became uncertain.
A source said BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia also played an important role so that the meeting takes place. Later, a time for the meeting was set due to the wishes of both sides, especially the increased interest from the government. This was discussed in the meeting of the BNP’s standing committee, the highest policymaking body of the party.
They thought the meeting would be better for the country and the nation.
Speaking about this, BNP standing committee member Salahuddin Ahmed told Prothom Alo, “The chief adviser is the head of the interim government. He is an internationally reputed personality. Acting chairman of BNP, the largest political party of the country, Tarique Rahman has been in exile in the UK for 17 years.”