Dhaka: Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman today claimed that the ruling Awami League has manipulated the constitution to serve its own interests, leaving no choice but to implement reforms. Rahman made these remarks during an online event celebrating ‘Easter Sunday’ for Christians at Khamarbari in the capital’s Farmgate area.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Rahman criticized the Awami League for failing to meet the expectations that fueled the Liberation War, asserting that the aspirations of that struggle have not been fulfilled under their governance. He emphasized that Bangladesh is a nation belonging to its people rather than any single individual or political party, countering accusations that the BNP opposes reforms in favor of elections. Rahman insisted that the BNP had been the first to propose necessary reforms.
He further alleged that efforts are underway to divide parties opposed to what he termed as the “fascist” rule of the Awami League while simultaneously attempting to restore the Awami League’s coalition partners who have benefitted from its three consecutive terms in power. Rahman called for national unity to thwart these schemes, drawing a parallel to past political figures who have fled the country, including Sheikh Hasina and Abdul Hamid.
The event also saw the presence of BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Aramgir and Archbishop Bejoy N. D’Cruze, with Advocate John Gomez chairing the proceedings. Rahman concluded by urging unity to prevent future conspiracies against the nation’s interests.