She alleged that Awami League (AL) is now making adverse comment regarding the army whereas the party, while in power, had deployed troops for "traffic control".

The BNP chairperson and immediate past prime minister made the remarks at a function at her Banani office where some retired army officers joined her party.

Nine army officers led by Brig Gen (retd) Dr MR Khan formally joined the BNP presenting a bouquet to the party chief. Among those who joined the party are Col (retd) Mokhlesur Rahman, Lt Col (retd) Syed Mohammad Hossain Sayeed, Maj (retd) Sharif Hossain Mukul and Maj (retd) Golam Morshed.

Criticising the violent activities of the AL-led 14-party combine since her transfer of power to the caretaker government, Khaleda said 75 people were killed in their ''anarchic" political action.

"BNP always wants peace and welfare of the people, but Awami League wants anarchy in the country," she told the function.

Khaleda blamed her opponent AL for what she said trying to push the army towards destruction.

She said the BNP-led coalition government had done a lot of work for the development of the army.

Welcoming the newcomers, she hoped they will accommodate their positions in the party through working together with party's leaders and workers.

BNP Secretary General Abdul Mannan Bhuiyan was present on the occasion.