Information and Broadcasting Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud has said that BNP is trying to foil the upcoming elections sensing its defeat. The party has no scope to go to the common people as its leaders are busy to carry out clandestine arson attacks like an underground party, he added.
The minister said this after inaugurating a photographic exhibition titled ‘Rupashi Bangla’ organised by Bangladesh Photo Journalists Association (BPJA) at Chithrashala auditorium of Shilpakala Academy in the city on Thursday (November 16).
Director General of Shilpakala Academy Liaquat Ali Lucky, president of Bangladesh Photo Journalists Association Indrajit Kumar Ghose, its general secretary Kazi Borhan Uddin, vice president Zahiduddin Ahmed Saimon, joint secretary Delwar Hossain Badal, publication and publicity secretary Abdullah Al Mumin, executive committee members Moshiur Rahman Suman and Rafiqul Islam were present at the event, among others.
Dr Hasan Mahmud, who is also general secretary of ruling Awami League; said that BNP failed to foil the elections in 2014 and 2018. Now the party’s strength is much less than 2014 and 2018, he said.
He said, a party cannot harm to common people and destroy public property. Only the terrorists can do this. By unleashing terror BNP has its character as a political party, he added.
The minister said that many BNP leaders have no case or arrest warrant, but they are not seen on the streets. In fact, they have no courage to appear before people for their crimes on October 28 last.
Dr Hasan Mahmud said that BNP-Jamaat has lost their popularity denying giving any statement against Israeli atrocities in Gaza. They have hurt the Muslims of the country making them ally of a terrorist state, he said.
He also said many BNP leaders would take part in the election despite the party is denying take part in the poll. Yesterday two BNP central leaders have disclosed it and many others are waiting to announce, he noted.
He said, the upcoming election would be held according to the schedule and a new government would be constituted with popular vote. Voters would also take part in the poll enthusiastically, he said.
Dr Hasan said that USA is a close friend of Bangladesh and both countries have multidimensional relations including in the areas of combating terrorism. “We give value to their advice. But we will have to take decision as per the expectations of the country’s people to protect the democracy,” he added.
The information minister said that Awami League is always favour culture of discourse. But dialogue cannot be held with any terrorist, he said.
Dr Hasan Mahmud extended thanks to the association for organizing the exhibition, saying a picture is stronger than a word. He also appreciated the photo journalists for their devotion to carry out their professional duties.
