BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Saturday blamed the interim government for what he called sheltering anarchists, following the recent killing of a scrap metal trader in Old Dhaka.
Speaking at a virtual meeting with families of those killed in the July uprising, Rahman questioned why those responsible for instigating mob violence were yet to be arrested.
“A non-issue is being deliberately turned into an issue,” he said. “Why aren’t those instigating the mob being arrested? Why is the government meeting its failure?”
The killing near Mitford Hospital has triggered national outrage, with Rahman blaming the government for failing to ensure public safety.
“Their core duty is to ensure safety of life and property. So why is there inaction? Why are those responsible being protected?” he asked during his remarks from London, where he currently resides in self-exile.
Rahman also suggested a deeper political motive may be at play. “Why hasn’t the main killer been arrested yet? The offenders can’t belong to any party,” he said, instructing BNP members to monitor the situation closely.
“I am telling you very clearly that the conspiracy is not over yet and it is now being hatched strongly,” he added. “If I were in power, I would have directed law enforcement agencies to deal with the situation with a strong hand.”
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Rahman’s comments came as criticism grows over alleged involvement of BNP-affiliated leaders in the attack. Reports of extortion and violence by members of the party’s associate wings, including Jubo Dal, have dominated local media.
The BNP has since expelled several accused activists. But other political groups, including Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and the National Citizen Party, have spoken out about what they describe as a pattern of criminality among BNP affiliates.
Rahman also referenced the killing of a Jubo Dal leader in Khulna, criticizing rival political groups for their silence.
“I told you nine months ago that there is an unsung enemy,” he said. “You must notice that they are becoming visible gradually.”
He ended his speech with a directive: “We now have to gather intelligence on those acting against the country’s independence and sovereignty. Watch closely who is doing what.”
The speech marks a renewed effort by Rahman to assert control over the party’s public messaging while trying to distance the BNP from recent criminal incidents tied to its own ranks.
