BNP leaders in Comilla have expressed strong outrage over a comment by National Citizen Party leader Hasnat Abdullah, in which he claimed the party’s politics in some upazilas of the district are funded by the Awami League, warning that he will be declared unwelcome in Comilla if he does not withdraw his statement.
At a press conference held at the Comilla Press Club on Monday afternoon, BNP leaders and activists condemned the statement and demanded an unconditional apology from NCP Chief Organizer (South) Hasnat within a week.
Failing that, they said, he will be declared unwelcome in the district.
Reading from a written statement, Md Selim Bhuiyan, organizing secretary for the Comilla region of the BNP’s National Executive Committee, said that Hasnat alleged at a local event on Friday that BNP politicians in Comilla operate with the Awami League’s money.
Selim described the comment as childish and said it stems from political immaturity. “We believe he is in need of mental treatment,” he added.
He also said Hasnat, a spokesperson for the so-called "King’s Party" NCP, lacks the calibre for refined politics.
“Politics requires tolerance and respect for opposing parties and leaders. His remarks have angered BNP activists in Comilla. If the comment is not withdrawn, it will not be possible to keep them calm,” Selim warned.
In response to a journalist’s question, Selim said: “If Hasnat Abdullah does not withdraw his remark, express regret, and apologize to the BNP’s central leadership promptly, I believe he should not be allowed to organize any event in Comilla.”
He added: “However, we have not declared him unwelcome yet — we are still giving him space. But if he fails to apologize, he will be declared unwelcome.”
He further said that the interim government is "tarnishing its image by involving such immature leaders in politics."
He added that the government should remove them from the political arena and arrange for a fair and inclusive election.
“The more the election is delayed, the more the public will lose confidence in the government. The people want an election,” he said.
