BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has claimed that a well-planned conspiracy is underway against the party, likening the current situation to the events leading up to the 1/11 political crisis.
"A campaign has been launched to undermine BNP's contributions, similar to the 1/11 period," Fakhrul stated during a press conference at the BNP chairperson's political office in Gulshan on Wednesday.
Fakhrul condemned the attacks on BNP, labeling them as unjust, and suggested that the party's demands for fair elections are being unfairly criticized.
He highlighted the persecution faced by the BNP over the past 15 years, including the imprisonment of Khaleda Zia for six years and the loss of many lives.
Fakhrul stressed the importance of allowing the interim government reasonable time to organise credible elections, underscoring that BNP, as a democratic party, has long been advocating for fair elections.
He expressed concerns about a conspiracy to depoliticise the nation as seen during the 1/11 era, suggesting attempts to eliminate the BNP as a political force.
He also commented on the recent floods, saying the BNP had canceled its 6-day programme for the party's founding anniversary on September 1 and redirected funds to flood victims.
Fakhrul criticised India for not providing prior warning before opening a dam, which led to severe flooding, resulting in the deaths of 27 people and many injuries.
Addressing accusations of corruption, Fakhrul stated that BNP is not involved in any wrongdoing and urged law enforcement agencies to properly investigate cases before filing them, emphasising the need to stop frivolous lawsuits.
He warned of a plot, possibly from neighbouring India, to destabilise the current situation in Bangladesh, and called for cooperation with the interim government to ensure that the path to elections remains undisturbed.
Fakhrul iterated BNP’s stance against banning any political party, advocating for everyone’s right to engage in politics. He cautioned against new figures entering the political scene with questionable motives and urged vigilance.
The party standing committee member Nazrul Islam Khan also spoke, acknowledging the difficult times and the need for patience with the interim government. He emphasised that the primary task is to establish democracy through fair elections, for which the interim government should be given the necessary time.