The schedule for the next parliamentary session has not yet been finalized. Amidst this, Tarique Rahman—serving as the Leader of the House and Prime Minister—has convened a meeting of the BNP parliamentary party for tomorrow, Sunday, at 6:00 PM in the ruling party's meeting room at the National Parliament.

Several senior BNP leaders indicated that the meeting might cover topics such as establishing internal party discipline, the recent law-and-order situation, constitutional amendments, and the upcoming local government elections.

Typically, parliamentary party meetings are held a day or two before a session begins or while it is in progress; however, this meeting has been called before the date for the next session has even been set. The parliamentary session is expected to commence in the second week of November.

Senior BNP leaders believe that the need to provide directives to Members of Parliament on critical issues lies behind the decision to call this meeting outside the usual schedule. Speaking to the media on condition of anonymity, a senior party leader said, "The Prime Minister has summoned everyone; he will certainly provide instructions on some important and urgent matters."

Observers note that beyond routine gatherings, BNP leaders see a need to discuss internal discipline, the law-and-order situation, and upcoming political and organizational challenges during this meeting.

Discussions with several senior BNP leaders revealed that the overall political situation would be addressed. Topics likely to come up include recent allegations against party leaders and activists regarding land grabbing, extortion, and irregularities; the law-and-order situation; constitutional amendments; and the upcoming local government elections. Directives regarding organizational matters are also expected.

Law and Order and Constitutional Amendments

For the ruling party, the law-and-order situation and allegations of criminal involvement by leaders and activists have become significant political issues. A recent example is the attack and vandalism at 'Radda,' a private healthcare center in Mirpur, Dhaka. Following this incident, BNP Member of Parliament (reserved seat for women) Ferdousi Ahmed (Misty) resigned; the allegations against her are currently under investigation. In the wake of the incident, three committees—including the Dhaka Metropolitan North BNP—were dissolved, and 14 leaders and activists at various levels were expelled. Through these measures, the BNP has signaled its intent to take action against individuals involved in land grabbing, extortion, and violence who exploit their party affiliation.

Additionally, the issue of constitutional amendment is a priority for the government. A special parliamentary committee is currently working on proposals for constitutional reform and the implementation of the 'July National Charter.' Salahuddin Ahmed, the Home Minister and chair of the committee, stated on September 20 that the goal is to conclude discussions and submit a report to Parliament by December. Plans are also in place to solicit opinions from various stakeholders, including political parties and constitutional experts.

Political consensus regarding the implementation of charter proposals, the role of the opposition in Parliament, and the reform of state institutions could prove crucial to the constitutional amendment process. Directives concerning the party's stance and the expected course of action for MPs may be issued during the parliamentary party meeting.

**Local Elections and Party Organization**

The upcoming local government elections represent a significant organizational test for the BNP. Following the national election, the party faces several challenges: managing the expectations and grievances of the grassroots regarding the election of local representatives, regulating competition among prospective candidates, and selecting acceptable nominees. Amidst uncertainty regarding the election schedule and preparations, central directives could play a pivotal role in shaping the party's stance at the grassroots level.

Furthermore, it has become essential for the BNP to maintain active organizational operations alongside the government's administrative duties. Relevant sources indicate that issues such as committee restructuring, decisions regarding committees with expired tenures, and the maintenance of discipline among leaders and activists are likely to be discussed.