BNP activists shouldn't be afraid, we'll give you shelter: Nasiruddin Patwary

Ordinary BNP activists have nothing to fear,  National Citizen Party (NCP) Chief Coordinator Nasiruddin Patwary said today (25 January), claiming that the alliance with Jamaat would provide them protection.

"Many senior BNP leaders have gone into various compromises. Even after their leader returned from London, the fate of grassroots BNP activists did not change. BNP activists should not be afraid, we will give you shelter," Nasiruddin said while addressing an election rally organised by the Jamaat alliance at Dhupkhola field in Gendaria.

Nasiruddin, also the Jamaat-led alliance's Dhaka-8 candidate, alleged that extortion and land grabbing remain rampant across the country, saying expectations of change following the return of a BNP leader from London had not materialised.

"We thought extortion and land grabbing would stop, but nothing has changed. Everyone is busy securing their own interests by visiting offices in Gulshan," he said.

Nasiruddin said the NCP would exercise restraint until the 12 February election, but warned of consequences afterwards. Referring to the killing of Inqilab Moncho leader Osman Hadi, he said the perpetrators were still at large, while suspects had been traced in the murder of Swechchhasebak Dal leader Musabbir. "If we win on the 12th and come to power, we will take revenge for Hadi's killing."

Issuing a warning to BNP's Dhaka-6 candidate Ishraque Hossain, Nasiruddin said there would be no room for 'feudalism' in politics and no tolerance for extortion in the area.

"I respect Sadeque Hossain Khoka, but I cannot show the same respect to his son. Correct yourself while there is still time. Stop this feudal practice," he said.

The NCP leader also promised to ensure the trial of Sheikh Hasina if the Jamaat alliance comes to power, while threatening action against those he said were trying to restore fascism. "The fathers of martyrs are sitting on our stage. Those injured in the July uprising are still suffering in hospitals. We have shown patience, but no more. If we come to power, we will hang Hasina."

Nasiruddin called on people across the country to take a pledge to ensure a "Yes" victory in the referendum and to elect all Jamaat alliance candidates in the upcoming polls.