AL frightened over visa policy

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir yesterday alleged that the Awami League is fearful of the new US visa policy due to their involvement in money laundering.

Fakhrul said, "They (AL leaders) have family and relatives abroad. The visa policy will have consequences for those who intend to rig the upcoming parliamentary elections in Bangladesh."

He made these remarks while addressing a youth rally titled "Youth Rally for Saving the Country" held in the Kazir Dewri area of the port city.

The Jatiyatabadi Jubo Dal, Swechasebak Dal, and Jubo Dal of Chattogram organised the rally, demanding the restoration of youths' voting rights in the election under a neutral government. The rally commenced at 2:00pm and concluded around 5:30pm.

Referring to the development work of the Karnaphuli tunnel in Chattogram, Fakhrul said, "While it is true that it is the first such tunnel in the country, what about the basic needs of the people? Prior to the tunnel, job opportunities for the youth should be ensured, and access to healthcare and living rights must be guaranteed."

BNP leaders and activists at a rally in Chattogram city’s Kazir Dewri area yesterday. Party Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir addressed the programme titled “Youth rally for saving the country”. Jubo Dal and Swechchhasebak Dal of Chattogram organised the event. Photo: Rajib Raihan

The rally saw the presence of BNP standing committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, BNP's Vice Chairmen Abdullah Al Noman, and other leaders.

Meanwhile, a chase and counter-chase ensued between  activists of Jubo Dal and Chhatra League in College Road area yesterday afternoon, amid escalating tensions in the port city centring the rally.