No compromise with terrorism, extortion, drugs: Mirza Abbas

“Drug use has marked a rise in recent years as playgrounds, recreational spots and even community spaces have been occupied or destroyed,” he said while speaking at a views-exchange meeting and doa mahfil at Malibagh’s AbuJar Gifari College.

Abbas, a BNP Standing Committee Member, said there are no playgrounds, no places for leisure and no clubs for the elderly as the Awami League has taken over everything and raised buildings.

“If I am elected, I will free these places. I say this out of anger too. The spaces I once made available for recreation have also been occupied by Awami League,” he said.

Abbas said he does not make false promises for votes. “Many people cannot be found after the election. I do not have that option. I am a son of this area.”

The BNP leader said he returned to the college after 17 years and found many structures damaged or encroached upon. “This area once had no drugs. Now the drug syndicate is huge. Still, it must be eliminated, and the people of the area will support me.”

He urged residents of the area to contact him directly with any problem. “An addict is not only a family problem but a social one. Call me whenever needed— I promise to take action immediately. Remember, there will be no compromise with terrorism, extortion or drugs.”

Abbas also stressed freeing canals and water bodies to reduce Dhaka’s chronic waterlogging. “Many water bodies have been grabbed, and the outlets for drainage are blocked. These must be restored.

Former commissioner Sajjad Zahir presided over the programme, and Dhaka South BNP leader Fazle Rubayet Pappu conducted it.

Teachers from several educational institutions also spoke at the event, reports UNB.