BNP shifted from nationalist party to extortionist: Jamaat ameer
BNP does not support constitutional reforms, nor respect the Human Rights Commission, and is unwilling to ensure the independence of the judiciary, he says
Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman has alleged that the BNP has transformed from a "nationalist party into an extortionist" one.
"From top to bottom, all are involved in extortion. But no extortionist has been brought to justice", he said while addressing a rally in Rajshahi organised by the 11-party alliance at the Madrasa Maidan this afternoon (16 May).
He further alleged that the BNP is following the same path as authoritarian forces and criticised the ruling party for failing to act against corruption within its ranks.
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The Jamaat ameer also criticised the government, stating that although the parliament is only about two and a half months old, it has already become deeply involved in corruption.
He said his party had initially wanted to give the new government time, but it was now moving in the wrong direction and betraying its electoral promises.
Shafiqur claimed the BNP had earlier pledged that there would be no unelected representatives in the country, but after assuming power, it appointed administrators in 42 districts, whom he described as unelected representatives.
He further alleged that the BNP does not support constitutional reforms, nor respect the Human Rights Commission, and is unwilling to ensure the independence of the judiciary.
According to him, the party is opposing judicial ordinances to maintain dominance over the judiciary and using it against the public in an authoritarian manner.
He warned that the people would not accept such actions and said the verdict of a referendum would be implemented.
He also stressed the need to bring water from the Padma River and implement the Teesta mega project, urging the authorities to prioritise river management.
Referring to West Bengal, he said Muslims are facing oppression, and that division is being created on religious grounds. He called on the global community to speak out on what he described as a humanitarian crisis and demanded action.
Shafiqur also criticised parliamentary discussions, stating that instead of addressing key issues such as unemployment, economic recovery, banking, insurance, and business, lawmakers are focusing on debates from decades ago.
History should be studied to learn lessons, not to push the country backwards, said the Jamaat ameer.
