By Saidur Rahman, Writer and Political Analyst
The political landscape in Bangladesh is witnessing visible shifts as allegations grow over Jamaat-e-Islami’s covert infiltration into mainstream parties, especially the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). Once a force that led street protests, Jamaat has reportedly adopted a strategy of political espionage since it retreated from public demonstrations after 2014.
According to political insiders, Jamaat members have systematically embedded themselves within major parties — some aligning with the ruling Awami League for short-term gains before shifting loyalties. Now, many of these figures hold influential positions within the BNP, despite their ideological alignment with Jamaat.
There is increasing concern that those who once chanted slogans in favor of Sheikh Hasina, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, or led student movements during past regimes, are now operating as covert operatives for Jamaat. Observers note that this infiltration has not only confused BNP’s ideological direction but also jeopardized its internal structure.
“Many of those who appear revolutionary in BNP today are simply waiting for signals to destabilize the party from within,” said a BNP insider. “The real nationalists are marginalized and suffocated by these Jamaat-aligned elements.”
Of particular concern is that several of these alleged infiltrators now occupy senior positions within the BNP central committee and its affiliated wings. Known for their smooth-talking, polished appearances, and behind-the-scenes lobbying, these individuals host indoor events, rent press clubs, and manage high-profile meetings—often under the radar.
They are said to ingratiate themselves with senior BNP leaders by excessive flattery, holding private sessions at party offices or residences, effectively shaping narratives from within. Many committed BNP grassroots workers, meanwhile, remain ignored despite years of sacrifice.
Jamaat’s reach reportedly extends beyond party structures into the intellectual and media landscape. Analysts claim that around 70% of those currently visible as “BNP-affiliated” in the media may not be genuine BNP loyalists. In contrast, true BNP supporters now make up only about 30% of the visible intellectual face of the party—and are being pushed to the sidelines.
This ideological mismatch has raised serious questions about BNP’s future course and its ability to distinguish friend from foe.
Sources describe a disturbing trend where some BNP leaders physically exist in the party, but their hearts and ideology remain aligned with Jamaat. These individuals often play dual roles — benefiting from BNP leadership while silently advancing Jamaat’s long-term interests. Some even publicly criticize BNP’s shortcomings while refusing to leave the party, further undermining internal unity.
“This group receives both ‘chair and care’ from the party, while genuine activists with long-standing commitment are overlooked,” a senior BNP supporter expressed.
In light of these challenges, senior leaders and activists have urged BNP’s central command to act decisively. They call for the identification and evaluation of genuine nationalist forces within the party, warning that failure to do so could result in long-term damage.
“The past 17 years have seen many Jamaat-Shibir members embed themselves within BNP. Unless action is taken, they will rise to key positions and may eventually stage exits that destabilize the party at crucial moments,” warned a party observer.
The message is clear: BNP must reassess its internal landscape and ensure loyalty and ideology are not compromised. Only by recognizing and empowering those committed to nationalist ideals can the party reclaim its identity and rebuild trust among its base.
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