Staff Reporter :
The ruling Awami League General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister, Obaidul Quader, made a bold statement regarding the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), asserting that it had never demonstrated an inclination towards democracy.
This statement arose following a joint meeting of the party’s central committee, convened at the Awami League President’s office in Dhanmondi, the capital, yesterday.
“The BNP never had any interest in democracy. We don’t claim that democracy is perfect anywhere in the world. However, we are striving to make democracy free from flaws. There is a sincere effort to match democracy,” said Quader.
Regarding the ongoing Upazila elections, Quader highlighted the issue of many relatives of ministers not withdrawing their candidacy. He revealed that efforts were underway by the party’s divisional leaders to persuade them to withdraw and encourage them to take further initiatives.
Responding to inquiries about potential consequences for violating party directives, the AL General Secretary affirmed that those who breach discipline would face some form of punishment. He cited an example, mentioning the dropping of 73 MPs in the last national parliamentary elections and the existence of 25 vacancies in the cabinet, hinting at possible repercussions in due course.
Earlier, Quader met with the editorial board of the Awami League, focusing on organisational matters amidst the current context. Additionally, plans were discussed for the upcoming historic Homecoming Day of Bangabandhu’s daughter, Sheikh Hasina, the President of the Awami League, scheduled for May 17th. Various programmes, including special prayers at religious institutions nationwide, were outlined.
Furthermore, the Awami League has mapped out an extensive three-day celebration for its upcoming 75th founding anniversary on June 23rd. Events will span up to the union level across Bangladesh, featuring discussions, prayer meetings, and tree plantation initiatives under the ‘Green Earth’ campaign. Notably, in light of the power crisis, the use of electricity for lighting decorations has been discouraged during the festivities.
Quader confirmed that the BNP, along with other political parties, would be invited to the Awami League’s founding anniversary celebrations, maintaining the tradition of inclusivity.
The political landscape in Bangladesh continues to evolve amidst these developments, with the Awami League forging ahead with its commitment to democracy and organisational integrity.
