BNP leaders must stand by people, shun fascist practices: Rizvi

BNP Acting Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has cautioned party leaders and activists against extortion, looting and land grabbing, urging them to reject authoritarian practices and put public welfare first after years of political struggle and sacrifice.

Speaking at a memorial meeting at the National Press Club in Dhaka on Monday, October 12, Mr Rizvi asserted that the BNP’s objective was neither to amass wealth overnight nor to pursue personal gain through politics. The event commemorated the 10th death anniversary of Brigadier General (retd) A S M Hannan Shah, a former BNP standing committee member and minister, and was chaired by Fazlul Haque Milon, convener of the Gazipur district BNP and a member of parliament. Moreover, Mr Rizvi claimed that defeated forces and their backers were conspiring to undermine Bangladesh’s independence, sovereignty and stability, while attempts were being made to sow disorder in various institutions. Alluding to the recent arrests of two retired military officers over alleged sabotage plans, he said the situation demanded that party activists remain vigilant and prepared.

He also urged BNP leaders to ensure peaceful Durga Puja celebrations by maintaining close contact with members of the Hindu community and festival committees, helping to secure puja mandaps and cooperating with law enforcement agencies. On governance, Mr Rizvi said party members should support the government in discharging its responsibilities and safeguarding its public image, regardless of the positions they held. Furthermore, he cautioned them against pursuing lucrative contracts or coveted posts and called on activists to help establish the rule of law and ease the hardships of ordinary citizens.

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Addressing the energy crisis stemming from the conflict in the Middle East and wider global uncertainty, he noted concerns over diesel imports and their potential impact on winter vegetable and pulse cultivation. Consequently, he appealed to the public to cooperate with the government as it endeavoured to stabilise the situation, although he did not elaborate on specific measures.