Chakaria: BNP standing committee member Salahuddin Ahmed today stated that the Awami League (AL) is not a political party but a force responsible for genocide, fascism, and mafia-style politics. He made these remarks during an election rally at Bamubilchari in Chakaria upazila this afternoon. Salahuddin Ahmed, who is also a BNP candidate for the Cox's Bazar-1 (Chakaria-Pekua) constituency, asserted that the Awami League has never possessed a genuine political character.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Salahuddin urged those who still feel sympathy for the Awami League to stand with pro-liberation forces, alleging that the party never truly believed in the existence of Bangladesh. He claimed that the Awami League sought to turn Bangladesh into a subordinate state of India and was eventually forced to flee the country in the face of a mass uprising, seeking refuge in India.
The BNP leader expressed optimism that those who supported the Awami League in the past are now acknowledging their mistakes and would uphold the country's independence and democratic values. He remarked that although former prime minister Sheikh Hasina managed to leave the country, many of her activists could not. "Not all of them could go to Delhi, nor could she take everyone with her," he noted.
Salahuddin Ahmed emphasized that activists who remained in the country and are connected with other political parties are free to continue their political activities, stating that political participation is a personal right. Referring to election campaigning, he alleged that a particular party is seeking votes in the name of religion, with some candidates promising "Jannat." He cautioned voters not to be misled by such campaigns.
He called on the people to vote for the BNP's election symbol, the sheaf of paddy, stating that doing so would ensure development, security, and the strengthening of democracy in the country. The rally was also attended by Chakaria upazila BNP President Enamul Huq, General Secretary M Mobarrak Ali, and former Bamubilchari Union Parishad Chairman Abdul Motaleb, among others.