Dhaka: Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Md Asaduzzaman today urged BNP leaders and activists to remain united under the party's ideals, shunning personal interests, mutual rivalry, and internal conflicts. He also warned that the party and the government would not take responsibility for the misdeeds of a few opportunists involved in extortion, anarchy, and harassment of people.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister made the remarks while addressing an exchange-of-views meeting as the chief guest at the banquet hall of Khulna Press Club this afternoon. The meeting was organized by Khulna city and district BNP units.
The minister emphasized that while healthy competition may exist in politics, it must not turn into personal hostility, enmity, or division. He cautioned that internal disunity would create opportunities for accomplices of fascism and vested interest groups to exploit the situation.
Regarding the nomination of candidates for elections, Md Asaduzzaman stated that the party would nominate candidates who enjoy greater acceptance among voters and have the ability to win elections. He also expressed anger over allegations of excessive toll collection and extortion at Rupsha Ghat and various haats and markets, asserting that no one would be allowed to harass or extort farmers in the name of the party.
The minister mentioned that the administration had been instructed to take strict action against such activities, including through mobile courts. He emphasized that no one would be spared, even if a senior party leader lobbies for any of these offenders, and reiterated that neither the party nor the government would take responsibility for the actions of extortionists.
Additionally, he highlighted that long-term plans were being implemented for dredging rivers and canals, tree plantation, and expansion of solar power to address the electricity shortage.
The meeting was presided over by city BNP President and KDA Chairman Advocate Shafiqul Alam Mona. Other notable speakers included BNP National Executive Committee Student Affairs Secretary and parliamentary whip Rakibul Islam Bakul MP, BNP National Executive Committee Information Affairs Secretary Azizul Bari Helal MP, and several other prominent figures from the BNP and Khulna administration.
District BNP Member Secretary (acting) and Khulna District Council Administrator Monirul Hasan Bappy moderated the meeting.