Quader: No international pressure to release Khaleda Zia

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File photo of Awami League General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader Courtesy

The Road, Transport and Bridges minister stated this at a briefing unveiling Awami League’s anniversary plans

Road, Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader—also Awami League general secretary—has claimed that his government is not facing pressure from the international community to release BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia – who is in jail after being convicted of corruption.

Quader stated this at a press briefing after a joint meeting of the Awami League secretariat level—along with leaders of affiliated organizations at Awami League’s central office—on Tuesday morning.

He continued that BNP is doing politics with Khaleda Zia’s treatment by saying: “Doctors have never warned that Khaleda Zia’s condition was severe.”

He then added that BNP has not been able to play a significant role in street movements and cannot in the parliament.

The briefing presented the party’s preparations and plans to mark the 70th founding anniversary of Awami League. Quader declared that Awami League will celebrate the day—June 23—with a month-long programme.

On the day, the national flag and Awami League’s party flag will be hoisted atop party offices across the country – and at Bangabandhu Bhaban at Dhanmondi 32 in Dhaka.

Leaders and activists of the ruling party will pay tribute to Bangabandhu by placing floral wreaths at his portrait in Dhanmondi.

The minister said that on the day, at 9:30am, a team of Awami League will place a floral wreath on Bangabandhu’s grave at Tungipara.

Awami League will arrange a meeting at the Bangabnadhu International Conference Hall that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina—also party president—will attend.

Awami League will host a reception for veteran, seasoned, and grassroots leaders at the meeting, said Quader.

On June 25, Awami League will arrange a cultural programme at its central office at Gulistan, Hatirjheel, and Rabindra Sarobar.

The ruling party will also publish a special magazine to mark the 70th founding anniversary, he said.

 

Source: Dhaka Tribune.