BNP’s Senior Joint Secretary General Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Tuesday accused what he called “another anti-democracy force” of trying to weaken nationalist political groups in Bangladesh.
Speaking at a food distribution event at Banani graveyard in Dhaka, marking the 56th birth anniversary of Arafat Rahman Koko, Rizvi said this group had become more active since the fall of what he described as a fascist government on August 5.
“Since August 5, the statements and actions of another anti-democracy force have made us believe that they are targeting nationalist forces,” Rizvi said.
He pointed back to events in 1986 and throughout the mid-90s as evidence, claiming this was proof the group had supported authoritarian regimes for decades. He also claimed they now operate under religious banners while plotting to create disputes around the upcoming national election.
According to Rizvi, the force’s influence extends beyond Bangladesh’s borders. He accused its members of working from a neighboring country using “black money and illegal weapons” to undermine political events organized by democratic groups.
Recent clashes in Chittagong were also mentioned. Rizvi criticized attacks on police where the slogan “Joy Bangla” was reportedly used, saying such incidents had stirred unrest.
Even so, he said the public expects a fair vote. Citing Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus’ commitment to a specific election timeline, Rizvi noted that the Election Commission is expected to release the schedule soon. “But it seems that many people are resorting to various cunning tricks and are involved in conspiracies regarding this election,” he added.
The BNP leader called the party’s work a continuous fight for the country’s independence and democratic rights. He added that Khaleda Zia and Tarique Rahman have inspired members to focus on that mission alone, without worrying about political partnerships.
He linked the ousting of Sheikh Hasina’s government in early August to public pressure but warned that attempts were underway to restore similar governance through “various means.”
Rizvi also reiterated the party’s position on Arafat Rahman Koko’s death, calling it unnatural and describing Koko as a “martyr of the democratic movement” who suffered under Hasina’s rule.
