Jamaat-led alliance Dhaka-8 candidate and National Citizen Party chief coordinator Nasiruddin Patwari said ordinary BNP activists had nothing to fear, claiming the NCP–Jamaat alliance would provide them shelter.
He made the remarks on Sunday while addressing an election rally organised by the Jamaat alliance at Dhupkhola field in Gendaria.
“Many senior BNP leaders have gone into compromises. Even after their leader returned from London, the fate of grassroots BNP activists did not change,” Nasiruddin said, urging BNP supporters not to be afraid.
He alleged that extortion and land grabbing remained rampant across the country, saying expectations of change following the return of a BNP leader from London had not been met.
“We thought extortion and land grabbing would stop, but nothing has changed. Everyone is busy securing their own interests by visiting offices in Gulshan,” he said.
Nasiruddin said the NCP would exercise restraint until the 12 February election but warned of consequences afterward.
Referring to the killing of Inqilab Moncho leader Osman Hadi, he alleged that the perpetrators were still at large, while suspects had been identified in the murder of Swechchhasebak Dal leader Musabbir.
“If we win on the 12th and come to power, we will take revenge for Hadi’s killing,” he said.
Issuing a warning to BNP Dhaka-6 candidate Ishraque Hossain, Nasiruddin said there would be no room for what he described as feudalism in politics and no tolerance for extortion in the area.
“I respect Sadeque Hossain Khoka, but I cannot show the same respect to his son. Correct yourself while there is still time. Stop this feudal practice,” he said.
Nasiruddin also said the Jamaat alliance would ensure the trial of Sheikh Hasina if it came to power, accusing unnamed forces of trying to restore fascism.
He called on voters to pledge support for a “Yes” victory in the referendum and to elect Jamaat alliance candidates in the upcoming national election.
