BNP's Khosru urges vigilance against mob violence ahead of election

BNP senior leader Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury on Saturday called upon their party leaders and workers to remain alert against mob violence and attempts to destabilise the country ahead of the election.

"Keeping in mind the change in the mindset of the people of Bangladesh after 5 August, BNP is committed to building a stable and peaceful Bangladesh through the politics envisioned by Tarique Rahman. But now we see the opposite kind of politics," he said.

Speaking at the opening session of the sixth day of BNP's 'Plan to Build the Country' workshop at the Krishibid Institution Bangladesh (KIB) auditorium in Farmgate, the leader also expressed concern over the prevailing politics of mob rule, brute force, speaking disrespectfully to others, and belittling people.

"The politics of creating instability under any pretext can never be desirable for Bangladesh's democracy. We must keep our eyes and ears open," he said.

Khosru, a BNP Standing Committee member, condemned the shooting of Dhaka-8 independent candidate Sharif Osman Hadi, calling it a very sad incident. "The President of the Chattogram City unit was attacked earlier, and another incident occurred yesterday (Friday). This is a time when stability is extremely important."

Describing Tarique Rahman as the 'torchbearer of democracy', he expressed excitement over his upcoming return to Bangladesh.

"Those who have been waiting for Bangladesh's democratic revival will be glad to know that the torchbearer of democracy, Tarique Rahman, will return to Bangladesh on December 25, Inshallah. This is truly joyful news for us," he said.

Khosru said the party's 'Plan to Build the Country' follows the commitment, vision, and dreams that Tarique Rahman has set for rebuilding the nation and shaping its future.

"We are especially delighted that on December 25, the most popular leader awaited by the people will return, bringing hope for the restoration of democracy and democratic order in Bangladesh," he said.

The BNP leader said Tarique Rahman united the nation and led the movement against the Awami League regime successfully. "The hero of that struggle and the torchbearer of democracy, Tarique Rahman, will return to Bangladesh on December 25."

Speaking about the political impact of Tarique's return, Khosru said a new wave of democratic energy will sweep across Bangladesh's political landscape. "Everyone must be prepared for that day and for the upcoming election."

"The forthcoming election is not just a victory for BNP as it will be a victory for democracy. BNP is the torchbearer of democracy, and we must uphold this responsibility," he added.

Khosru emphasised, "BNP's priority will not be mega projects in the name of development, but investment in education and healthcare. Sustainable development is not possible without fulfilling people's basic needs."

He inaugurated the sixth day's programme at the KIB auditorium, with BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi in the chair. BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman is expected to address the concluding session virtually in the afternoon.

Leaders and activists from across the country joined the programme to receive training on various issues so they can reach out to people and explain BNP's plans, election manifesto, and promises ahead of the polls.