BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir expressed strong disapproval of a recent comment made by energy adviser Muhammad Fawzul Kabir Khan, who remarked that "politicians are eager to come to power."
Fakhrul condemned the statement, calling it "unfortunate" and asserted, "We want elections soon. The more you delay, the more likely it is that [Prime Minister Sheikh] Hasina will return. We're in this to go to power—that's why we do politics."
Addressing supporters at a discussion commemorating the fifth death anniversary of BNP leader and freedom fighter Sadeque Hossain Khoka, Fakhrul cautioned, "Don't attempt anything beyond BNP through conspiracies. The 'minus two' formula didn’t work in the past and won’t work now."
The event was held at the Bangladesh Engineering Institute on Sunday (November 3).
To journalists, Fakhrul expressed frustration over the state of governance, saying, "We’ve been freed from the grip of a terrible monster. Even though that weight is lifted, true relief still eludes us because a people's government hasn’t been established yet."
Fakhrul alleged rampant economic corruption, citing reports that "around $12 billion is laundered each year, totaling about $100 billion. The economy and humanity have been devastated, and wherever you look, Awami League thieves are still seated."
Reflecting on Sadeque Hossain Khoka’s legacy, Fakhrul recalled his cross-party respect and dedication, saying, "Khoka named the streets of Dhaka after notable figures, not just for BNP but for all." He urged the youth, "This is your era. When Abbas and Khoka stood together, Dhaka trembled. You must now do the same."
BNP Standing Committee member Mirza Abbas shared his concerns, saying, "I feel the political landscape is murky. While Sheikh Hasina might have stepped back, her associates are still everywhere." He voiced his fear that election delays might allow the Awami League to return to power and accused someone close to the Chief Adviser of pushing the country toward destruction.
Abbas also defended Fakhrul's remarks, alleging that his statements were being misrepresented by the media. "When politicians' words are not conveyed accurately, they take on a different meaning," he added.
BNP Standing Committee member Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku, BNP Chairperson's Adviser Abdus Salam, and Sadeque Hossain Khoka’s son Ishraq Hossain also addressed the gathering.
Dhaka City South BNP Convener Rafiqul Alam Majnu presided over the meeting, with Member Secretary Tanvir Ahmed Robin moderating.