Opposition Leader Dr. Taher Challenges President’s Right to Address Parliament

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, following a strategic meeting of the 11-party opposition alliance at the Parliament Bhaban, Dr. Taher referred to the President as a "collaborator of fascists" and argued that he has lost the legal right to speak in the House.

The opposition’s stance comes just one day before the inaugural session of the 13th Parliament, where the President is traditionally expected to deliver a policy-setting speech. Dr. Taher asserted that the current President’s continued presence in office is a contradiction to the spirit of the 2024 uprising and the subsequent reforms. He emphasized that the opposition alliance is currently weighing various options, including a potential boycott or a formal protest during the President’s scheduled address tomorrow, March 12.

The 11-party alliance, which serves as the primary opposition bloc against the BNP-led government, held the meeting to coordinate their parliamentary tactics for the upcoming session. Dr. Taher’s remarks reflect a growing demand within the alliance for a total overhaul of the constitutional framework, including the appointment of a new President who reflects the "post-July" political reality. As the nation prepares for the first session under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s leadership, this confrontation between the opposition and the presidency sets the stage for a highly contentious and vocal parliamentary term.