Awami League Presidium Member Mohammad Nasim admitting that the defeat in city corporation elections was a ‘major blow’ to his party, called for course correction.
Speaking at a programme at Central Library Auditorium on Friday, he further said that those creating problems for the government should walk out of it.
“There is no doubt that the city polls results were a big blow for the party. We should rectify the lapses and mistakes. We have to decide which way to go now. We have to accept this harsh reality.”
Awami League-supported candidates suffered big defeats in the recent city polls in Rajshahi, Sylhet, Khulna, Barisal, and Gazipur. Gazipur was regarded as a ‘stronghold’ of the Awami League.
The defeat in Gazipur brought the rift within the party in the open.
Prime Minister and Awami League chief Sheikh Hasina on Thursday had urged her supporters to unite setting asides their differences.
Pointing out that very little time is left for the parliamentary elections, Nasim called for introspection and corrective measures.
“The veil of uncertainty will lift. The truth will come out one day. But, we must continue to work for that. Only slogans will not help. We have to collectively decide how to move forward.”
Without taking anyone’s name, the senior Awami League leader said, “Those who are bothering the government should move away from it. Understand the people. We cannot take your responsibilities.”
He hoped that the people will understand their ‘mistake’ in course of time. He also called upon all to point out the mistakes of Awami League.
Referring to the BNP-led 18-Party alliance, Nasim said that Hifazat-e Islam and other religious organisations are trying to stop Awami League. “This is creating a dangerous situation. This party (BNP) will have to regret the choice it made, blinded by greed for power.”
“Decision must be taken to stop misuse of religion in politics. I think it is time the Election Commission takes strict steps to rein confusions spread through religious propaganda.”
Nasim further thanked the Prime Minister for holing all elections under Awami League-led government in ‘free and fair’ manner. “A neutral election will take place. The choice will be people’s. The government did not intervene, nor will it do in future.”
He demanded a quick disposition of Biswajit Das murder case.
“The road ahead is a tough one. All confusions need to be cleared. There is no alternative to democracy. But, there will be plots to destroy it.”
He issued strict warnings apparently to the BNP. “Do not move forward to kill democracy by paralysing it with movements.”
Source: Bd news24
