Conspiracy unfolding against BNP, Bangladesh

BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman yesterday warned that a new conspiracy is unfolding by a vested group against the BNP, the country's democracy, and the very existence and sovereignty of Bangladesh.

"Those of us involved in politics have been talking about a plot for the past few days. A plot is once again unfolding. We are not saying this merely as political rhetoric or to attract people's attention. Genuinely, a serious conspiracy is gradually being hatched against Bangladesh's existence, sovereignty, and democracy," he said while virtually addressing an iftar event.

Zia Cyber Force organised the iftar at a city hotel to honour online activists.

Tarique said there had been a plot in the past against the country, its people, and democracy.

In recent days, he said, they have observed that the BNP has been subjected to a media trial, as the party has the highest chances of gaining support from voters.

The BNP acting chief also said he came across media reports yesterday involving party leaders and activists in an untoward incident.

After gathering information from the party's central office, he found that the incident was misrepresented in newspapers.

"A vested quarter, or those conspiring against the BNP, the nationalist forces, and the independence and sovereignty of the country, are gradually trying to create a scenario similar to the media trial the BNP was subjected to during the 1/11 political changeover, by using certain media houses to which they are connected," Tarique observed.

Tarique called upon the nationalist cyber forces to be vigilant about such plots, saying, "Those of you who are online activists must realise this."

He also urged pro-BNP online activists to play a crucial role in countering such plots by circulating facts and genuine information on social media.

He recalled with gratitude the role of the pro-BNP online activists in mobilising anti-fascist public support during the Hasina regime.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir too acknowledged the role of online activists in "movements against the Awami League regime over the last 17 years".

"They made many sacrifices and endured serious repression during the fascist regime," he said.

Referring to online activists as cyber warriors, Fakhrul said they have to once again play a major role in thwarting the plot against the country and BNP.