Plots afoot against both govt and BNP: Rizvi

“You may point out the government’s mistakes. But engaging in conspiracies, plotting and repeatedly hinting at conspiracies are things the people of this country have never accepted and never will,” he said.

Rizvi, also prime minister’s adviser, was speaking at a press conference held at the BNP’s Nayapaltan central office.

He urged opposition parties to avoid the politics of conspiracies and instead engage in constructive criticism.

The BNP leader warned that any broader conspiracy against democratic institutions or the political system will be dangerous for the state and the country.

“The democratic process that has emerged through long struggles, sacrifices and bloodshed against fascism must be allowed to continue strongly and vibrantly,” he said.

Rizvi said efforts are underway to strengthen democratic institutions, including the Election Commission, law enforcement agencies and the administration, so that future elections remain free, fair and unquestionable.

“We all must work within this framework so that no one becomes a victim,” he added.

Quoting a statement by former US President James Madison, the BNP leader said, “If all men were angels, government would not be necessary.”

He added that since not everyone in society obeys the law, maintaining law and order and ensuring justice remain key responsibilities of an elected and accountable government.

Rizvi said the current government under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has taken action whenever incidents of wrongdoing have occurred.

Referring to the rape and murder of eight-year-old Ramisa Akter in Dhaka’s Pallabi area, he said the Prime Minister personally took the matter seriously, visited the victim’s family and ensured that the accused was brought to justice. “The government has taken all necessary legal steps, and people believe that justice will be delivered swiftly,” he said.

The BNP senior joint secretary general also highlighted various social welfare initiatives undertaken by the government, including the introduction of Family Card, Farmers’ Cards and upcoming Health Cards.

He also announced BNP programmes marking the death anniversary of party founder and former President Ziaur Rahman.

Rizvi said BNP leaders and activists, led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, will pay tribute at Ziaur Rahman’s grave at 11:00am on Saturday.

After placing wreaths, the Prime Minister will participate in food and clothes distribution programmes in different areas under the Dhaka North and South city BNP units. Another similar programme will be held later in the afternoon in front of the party’s Nayapaltan central office, reports UNB.