Yunus–Tarique meeting to bring positive shift in politics: Rizvi

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Wednesday has expressed optimism that an upcoming meeting between Nobel Laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus and BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman will mark a significant moment in the country’s political landscape.

Addressing a press conference at the party’s central office in Naya Paltan, Rizvi stated, “The whole nation is looking toward London. I believe the meeting between Dr. Yunus and Tarique Rahman will be a historic one, bringing a breath of fresh air into Bangladesh’s politics.”

He emphasized BNP’s demand for the next general election to be held in December, terming it a logical and timely proposal. “The people of this country expect a free, fair, and participatory election. All political crises, including electoral disputes, can and should be resolved through dialogue,” he said.

Rizvi strongly criticized neighboring India, accusing it of adopting a hostile attitude toward Bangladesh. He claimed that India has become aggressive, especially amid speculations about a change in Bangladesh’s political leadership.

“India has been pushing people into Bangladesh under the pretext of them being ‘foreigners.’ Border push-ins are happening almost daily. I ask—has Bangladesh become a dumping ground?” he said.

He warned that such actions could provoke public outrage. “This is not just about protest. If necessary, resistance will be organized. India must remember—oppression cannot keep any regime in power forever, not even Sheikh Hasina’s,” he cautioned.

Rizvi expressed concern over a rising number of COVID-19 cases in both India and Bangladesh. “India has already reported over 7,000 new infections, and cases are also emerging in Bangladesh, including one death. Yet the Health Ministry’s preparedness remains negligible,” he said, urging the government to take immediate steps to address the situation.

He also voiced alarm over the growing dengue outbreak. “The situation is turning severe, and public health is at risk. Both the government and citizens must act responsibly to tackle the crisis,” he stated.

Commenting on the recent spike in road accidents during the Eid holidays, Rizvi said at least 57 people lost their lives due to reckless driving. “Stricter enforcement and administrative oversight could have reduced the number of fatalities,” he added.

He also noted an increase in criminal activities during Eid, stating, “A peaceful Eid celebration is only possible in a democratic and secure environment. Unfortunately, the declining law and order situation deprived people of that.”