Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader has slammed the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) for the train derailment in Gazipur, alleging that it was part of a deep conspiracy to disrupt the upcoming national parliamentary election.
Speaking at an event on Wednesday, Quader questioned how BNP could claim to establish democracy through arson and sabotage.
He said that the train derailment was a deliberate act aimed at creating chaos and hindering the election process.
"This is an anti-election conspiracy," Quader declared, adding: "A conspiracy is being made to stop the January 7 election through this sabotage. But elections will be held on time."
He further asserted that the Awami League is committed to a peaceful and successful election, emphasizing that no amount of sabotage will deter the people from exercising their right to vote.
"People are election-oriented. They are eager to vote. A festive atmosphere has been created in the country. Anti-election forces will be answered through voter turnout," he added.
Addressing concerns about rumors and apprehensions surrounding the political landscape, Quader said the Awami League would not be distracted or unsettled by them.
He also acknowledged the imperfections of democracy, emphasizing the need for continuous improvement and addressing existing issues.
"No one can claim that our democracy or the democracy of any country in the world is flawless," he said.
"But to achieve this perfection, we will eliminate those issues and make the journey of democracy smoother," the Awami League general secretary added.
A man was killed as the Dhaka-bound Mohanganj Express derailed at Bankharia (Chilai river) bridge of Gazipur on the Dhaka-Mymensingh railway early Wednesday.