It is the government who had paved the way for a ‘rise in extremism’ in Bangladesh, says the BNP.
“It’s clear after al Qaeda leader Ayman al Zawahiri’s recent video message that extremism rises in the country during Awami League rule. They create that kind of atmosphere as they do not believe in democracy,” said the party’s acting Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir.
He was speaking to reporters on Saturday at a Dhaka Hospital, where he went to visit ailing BNP Standing Committee member RA Gani.
“Extremism rises when democratic options are nullified. I believe the rise in militancy is due to the Awami League,” said the senior BNP leader.
In a video message released on Wednesday, the al Qaeda announced forming a South Asia chapter covering Bangladesh, India and Myanmar.
Replying a query over Tarique Rahman’s recent statement against religion-based politics, Mirza Fakhrul said that was “deliberately misquoted. “
“This is not right. BNP believes in democracy as well so does Tarique Rahman.
“Democracy gives play to diverse opinions. It also allows politics based on various ideologies. Those who believe in religion based politics can also participate in democracy, there’s no problem,” he said.
On the note of the Japanese premier’s visit, Mirza Fakhrul said they think it will be benefit the people of the country.
“According to media reports, he is coming with various investment proposals, which will have positive impact on Bangladesh’s socio-economic development”
Japanese PM Shinzo Abe has arrived Dhaka on Saturday on a 22-hour visit.
Source: bdnews24