BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has expressed serious concern over what he described as “covert attacks” aimed at destabilising the country and undermining the upcoming national elections.
In a statement issued on Friday afternoon, he referred to the shooting of BNP leader Hasan Mollah in Keraniganj on Thursday night, calling the incident part of a broader attempt to create instability ahead of the polls.
Hasan Mollah, 42, the General Secretary of Hazratpur union BNP under Keraniganj model upazila, was shot by unidentified assailants in front of the party office in the upazila, on the outskirts of Dhaka.
Condemning the attack, Mirza Fakhrul said that following the fall of the Awami League’s authoritarian rule through the student-led mass movement, criminal elements that had remained dormant were now resurfacing and engaging in acts of violence and disorder.
“There is no alternative to identifying the perpetrators of the attack on Hasan Mollah and bringing them to justice with exemplary punishment. Failure to do so could lead to more serious acts of sabotage,” the statement said.
Mirza Fakhrul also stressed the need for unity among people of all political affiliations to safeguard democracy, protect voting rights, and ensure the security of lives and property.
He urged the authorities to address the deteriorating law and order situation, noting that a fear-free environment is essential for holding a free and fair election.
Fakhrul demanded the immediate arrest and punishment of those responsible for attacks on Hasan Mollah and other party leaders and activists. He also wished a speedy recovery to the injured and expressed sympathy for their families.
MHA/MHK