‘Political divisions may aid Hasina’s return’

Prime Minister’s Political Adviser Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Monday criticised Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami for what he said was creating divisions in politics, warning that continued discord could pave the way for the return of deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina.

“Why are you (Jamaat) following Sheikh Hasina’s path? If you follow her path, we will remain trapped in that same darkness. If this division and discord continue, Sheikh Hasina will clap in satisfaction and try to return to Bangladesh by parachute,” he said.

Rizvi, who is also the BNP’s senior joint secretary general, made the remarks while addressing a discussion titled Contribution of Nurses to Bloodstained July and a documentary screening at the Bangladesh Medical University auditorium in the capital.

He said the July uprising has a strong philosophical foundation that guarantees citizens’ freedom, the right to speak and the right to live without fear.

The BNP leader said the July uprising was the culmination of 17 years of bloodshed and continuous democratic struggle. “Hundreds of leaders and activists of BNP, Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal and other associate bodies sacrificed their lives during this movement,” he added.

He said Sheikh Hasina had used state institutions “in a disgraceful manner” to suppress political dissent and citizens’ rights.

“Those who are entering politics today must develop a healthier political culture. The politics of hatred and division must stop. Otherwise, the fall of authoritarianism will lose its significance,” Rizvi said.

Highlighting the role of nurses during the July uprising, he said they set a remarkable example of humanity by standing beside injured students and protesters on the streets.

“Nurses are the frontline soldiers of humanity. It is impossible to improve the country’s overall healthcare system while neglecting this vital sector,” the BNP leader said.

He alleged that the previous authoritarian government had pushed the health sector towards destruction, while the current government is working to reform it.

BNP Health Affairs Secretary Prof Dr Rafiqul Islam and Prime Minister’s Political Assistant Md Rashed Khan attended the programme as special guests.