Dhaka: BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi today alleged that a deep-seated conspiracy is underway against the country’s independence and sovereignty. “Following the political changes after August 5, threats are emerging from a neighboring country and various new powers are rising within the nation. This has created an opportunity for a major conspiracy to undermine our independence,” he said.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Rizvi made the remarks at a discussion on the book “A Theoretical Analysis of Bangladeshi Nationalism: The Crisis of Civic and Nationalist Nationalism” written by Dr. Maruf Mallick. The event was organized by ‘November 7 Projonmo’ at the National Press Club.
Alleging that narratives are being deliberately constructed against BNP, Rizvi remarked, “In today’s situation, we are constantly facing threats. After August 5, various divisive tones are being heard. The name of Jamaat is also being brought up when BNP members are involved. However, the media is giving more coverage to BNP’s setbacks. Even when the names of Jamaat leaders are mentioned in cases of scandals or looting, the blame is being placed on BNP on social media.”
He further claimed, “A government adviser first started this propaganda in a planned manner and later a political party widely promoted it. Narratives are being constructed against BNP in various ways.”
Addressing the Dhaka University Students’ Union (DUCSU) election, Rizvi questioned, “Has a VP (vice-president) been given the power of a magistrate? He is collecting fines from university shops and that money is reportedly going to the Jamaat’s Baitul Maal – does this have any legal basis?”
Rizvi expressed concern that instead of focusing on academics, political influence is spreading through financial collections from university shops, which is harming the quality of education and student life. He also mentioned that BNP is taking necessary steps against allegations involving the party leaders and activists. “BNP is taking actions when it finds corruption or allegations within its own party. We suspend, expel and penalize. But these actions aren’t publicized. Instead, a planned propaganda campaign is being waged against us in the media.”
The event was attended by BNP Standing Committee member Dr. Abdul Moyeen Khan, Organizing Secretary Principal Selim Bhuiyan, and senior journalist Amirul Islam Kagzi.