‘Minus Two’ Formula Will Never Succeed: Amir Khasru

Staff Reporter

BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury warned that the ‘Minus Two’ formula or the theory of depoliticization would not succeed in eradicating the BNP.

Responding to reporters’ questions on Friday afternoon, he said those who advocate for ‘Minus Two’ will never see their hopes fulfilled.

Khasru spoke to journalists after paying respects at the grave of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar.

He stated that depoliticization or the ‘Minus Two’ theory is a baseless idea. “This is their problem. Where Bangladesh stands today, the BNP stands there as well. BNP is a popular party, Khaleda Zia is a popular leader, Tarique Rahman is a popular leader. Bangladesh awaits them and will continue to do so. Those who talk about ‘Minus Two’ can keep hoping, but that hope will never materialize.”

He emphasized that the ‘Minus Two’ concept had previously failed under HM Ershad and during the 2007-2008 caretaker government. “BNP is now stronger than ever and cannot be eliminated,” he said.

The ‘Minus Two’ formula emerged during the caretaker government’s rule starting January 11, 2007. At the time, BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, her elder son Tarique Rahman, and Awami League President Sheikh Hasina, along with several other political leaders, were arrested. Discussions about political party reforms led to proposals to sideline the two leaders and introduce reforms within their parties.

During that period, allegations arose implicating several prominent media owners and editors, government agencies, and Dr. Muhammad Yunus in the ‘Minus Two’ agenda.

Following anti-government protests in July and August 2024, discussions about reforms within the state and political parties have resurfaced. BNP and other parties have called for reforms in various state sectors and demanded elections after implementing necessary changes.

Khasru stressed the need to establish democracy in Bangladesh, identifying elections as the first step toward reforms. “The movement for reforms and the restoration of democracy must begin with elections. Through a democratic process, the expected changes in the future will be realized,” he said.

On Friday afternoon, Khasru visited Ziaur Rahman’s grave with New York State BNP President Oliullah Atiqur Rahman, Vice President Jasim Uddin, General Secretary Saidur Rahman Said, US BNP leaders Humayun Kabir, Rana Chowdhury, Shahin Abdullah, Kausar Alam, and others.

BNP Chairperson’s Advisory Council member Abdus Salam and several central leaders were also present.