No one suffered consequences of 1/11 more than BNP: Mirza Abbas

Highlights:

• Abbas refutes claims that BNP is planning a repetition of 1/11
• BNP endured the worst of 1/11's aftermath, he says
• Abbas welcomed formation of new political parties but criticised those accusing BNP of hostility towards them

BNP Standing Committee member Mirza Abbas has strongly refuted claims that the party is planning a repetition of 1/11, referring to the military-backed caretaker government that took power in January 2007.

"No one has suffered the terrible consequences of 1/11 more than BNP," Abbas said during a speech as the chief guest at a prayer ceremony held today (24 January) at the party's central office in Nayapaltan.

The event marked the 10th death anniversary of Arafat Rahman Koko, the youngest son of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia. 

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Abbas criticised those accusing BNP of plotting to recreate the political turmoil of 2007.

He stated, "Recently, I have heard many things said against BNP on television and in newspapers. Some suggest BNP is trying to bring back 1/11. I want to clarify: BNP endured the worst of 1/11's aftermath."

Addressing allegations of BNP being aligned with India, Abbas said, "Those trying to associate BNP with India or label us as an ally of Awami League should first look in the mirror. If anyone attempts to portray BNP as India's broker, the consequences will not be good."

He called for unity in the country, underscoring the leadership of late Ziaur Rahman and Khaleda Zia, stating, "Ziaur Rahman and Khaleda Zia were the vigilant sentinels of this country. It would be unjust to forget their contributions."

Abbas also highlighted BNP's role in the country's welfare, accusing the previous government of harming independence, sovereignty, and democracy through a "slow poisoning" method.

During his speech, Abbas welcomed the formation of new political parties but criticised those accusing BNP of hostility towards them, describing such individuals as "enemies of the country."

The prayer ceremony was attended by BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, Assistant Secretary for Volunteer Affairs Abdul Qadir Bhuiyan Jewel, and other party leaders.

Explainer: What is ‘1/11-styled government’

The term 1/11 refers to 11 January 2007, when a military-backed caretaker government assumed power amidst political unrest and a deadlock between the Awami League and BNP over the fairness of upcoming elections.

The caretaker government later held elections on 29 December 2008, resulting in a landslide victory for the Awami League, led by Sheikh Hasina.

The caretaker system was subsequently abolished under her administration. To this day, the 1/11 government remains a controversial chapter in Bangladesh's political history.