Criticism of government acceptable, but conspiracies dangerous: Rizvi

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said criticism of the government and pointing out its mistakes were acceptable, but warned that conspiracies or politics aimed at creating instability would be dangerous for the country on Friday.

He made the remarks at a press conference held at the BNP’s central office in Nayapaltan in the capital.

Rizvi said late President Ziaur Rahman had played a historic role in establishing democracy and restoring multi-party politics in the country.
“From ensuring press freedom to building a production-oriented economy, he provided courageous leadership in every sector,” he said.

Referring to Ziaur Rahman’s assassination, Rizvi alleged that the former president was killed on May 30, 1981 at the Chattogram Circuit House through “local and foreign conspiracies” because of his uncompromising stance in protecting national interests and nationalist ideals.

Highlighting the current political situation, the BNP leader said crime, disorder and crises could exist in any state, but it was the responsibility of an elected government to take swift action and ensure the rule of law.

“The government is taking action against wrongdoing and criminal activities, and people are witnessing that,” he said.

Rizvi also spoke about several social welfare initiatives undertaken by the government led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, saying programmes such as Family Card, Agriculture Card and Health Card would help improve the living standards of ordinary people.

He said democratic institutions, including the Election Commission, administration and police, must remain neutral and accountable to strengthen democracy.

“The democratic process achieved through long struggles and sacrifices must not be obstructed in any way,” he added.

Announcing an eight-day programme marking the death anniversary of BNP founder and former president Ziaur Rahman, Rizvi said party flags would be kept at half-mast and black flags hoisted across the country, including at the party’s Nayapaltan office, from 6am on Saturday.

He said Prime Minister and BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman, along with senior party leaders, would place wreaths and offer Fateha at Ziaur Rahman’s grave at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar at 11am on the day.
The BNP and its associate bodies will also organise discussion meetings, photo exhibitions, prayer gatherings and distribute food and clothing among the underprivileged as part of the programmes, Rizvi added.