Hasina responsible for Khaleda Zia's critical condition: Rizvi

BNP Chairperson and former prime minister Khaleda Zia's deteriorating health is largely the result of actions taken by Awami League President and deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina, BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said today (3 December).

"Begum Khaleda Zia is in this critical condition today because of Hasina. Hasina became a symbol of breaking promises, while Khaleda Zia always kept faith in the people and never sought illegal privileges," he said while speaking at a prayer event organised by Jatiyatabadi Krishak Dal in Nayapaltan seeking Khaleda Zia's recovery.

He said the outpouring of emotion across the country for her reflects the deep affection for her among citizens.

"The love, respect and longing people are expressing nationwide — we, her followers, are unable to repay it," Rizvi added.

Rizvi criticised Sheikh Hasina for "repeatedly breaking commitments," recalling that she once vowed not to participate in elections under Hussain Muhammad Ershad but reversed her decision within a day.

He also accused the Awami League of spearheading unrest in the 1990s over the caretaker government system, only to abolish it later.

He said Khaleda Zia had accepted the caretaker government formula at the time to avoid bloodshed involving children and young people.

"Hasina always insists on getting everything her way, while Khaleda Zia decides based on public interest."

Rizvi further recounted that in 2011, even senior Awami League leaders, including Suranjit Sengupta, Tofail Ahmed, Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury and Workers Party President Rashed Khan Menon had urged Hasina to retain the caretaker system for two more terms, but she refused, reports UNB.

Highlighting public sentiment for Khaleda Zia, he said people across the country are praying for her recovery.

Rizvi expressed hope that she will soon return to the public and lead the nation through this critical juncture.