Dhaka: NP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi today asserted that BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia never left Bangladesh despite facing severe health issues and political crises. "Begum Khaleda Zia is our inspiration. Despite so much sickness and crisis, she never abandoned the party and the country. She remained undeterred, and that is our pride," he stated.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Rizvi made these remarks during a prayer event organized by Jatiyatabadi Mohila Dal in Naya Paltan, aimed at seeking the recovery of Begum Khaleda Zia. He emphasized that Khaleda Zia had consistently guided party members through challenging times, teaching them resilience and unity even when confronted with adversity.
Rizvi accused a 'vengeful and autocratic' state apparatus of harassing Khaleda Zia, suggesting a conspiracy behind her declining health. He also criticized ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, citing recent reports of gold found in a bank vault and accusing her of corruption. Rizvi claimed that Sheikh Hasina eventually fled after her attempts to weaken the country failed.
He further stressed the importance of a free and fair national election in February, before Ramadan, emphasizing the people's right to choose their government. Rizvi expressed confidence that an interim government would maintain neutrality and address the issues created during Sheikh Hasina's tenure. He concluded by stating that millions of Bangladeshis 'love and pray' for Khaleda Zia, inspired by her patriotism and dedication to the nation.