Kader Siddiqui, head of the Krishak Sramik Janata League and a former freedom fighter, has cautioned that failing to hold national elections in February could have serious consequences for Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus.
Speaking at a gathering of Kaderia Bahini veterans on Saturday, Siddiqui said he once respected Yunus but warned that his fate would be worse than that of Sheikh Hasina if polls are delayed. “If elections are not held in February, your fate will be ten times worse than Sheikh Hasina’s,” he said.
Siddiqui also condemned what he described as attacks on Bangladesh’s historical legacy. “Defiling Bangabandhu is defiling the nation, independence, and Bangladesh itself. We demand justice,” he said. Addressing Nahid Islam, he asked, “If Bangabandhu is not the Father of the Nation, then who is your father? Think carefully before you speak.”
Turning to Sheikh Hasina’s removal from office, Siddiqui argued that it was not orchestrated by individuals but happened through public protest. “Her fall happened because the people took to the streets, not by your wishes,” he said. At the same time, he drew a line on accountability, adding, “If you attempt any wrongdoing against Sheikh Hasina, I will fight against it while I am alive.”
Siddiqui made clear he supports a fair trial for the former prime minister. “Let her be judged according to the law and punished if necessary—I will bear the responsibility,” he said, before noting the distinction between Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and his daughter. “As long as Bangladesh exists, Joy Bangla will endure.”
The veteran politician also used the occasion to renew calls for increasing allowances for freedom fighters. “We do not seek charity; we seek recognition. War is immensely difficult. I fear only Allah and His Messenger, not authorities,” he said.
