BNP says it has expelled thousands so far for wrongdoing, vows to maintain zero tolerance

BNP on Friday reaffirmed its position against any form of mischief and unlawful activities, saying that the party has punished four to five thousand partymen so far.

“Some individuals are making mischief and creating panic among people in the name of our party—we are taking action against them. The acting chairman is closely monitoring and taking swift action whenever anyone is found involved in any form of wrongdoing,” said BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi.

The BNP leader said that four to five thousand leaders and activists have been expelled recently for their involvement in wrongdoings and activities that tarnished the party's image.

He highlighted some recent incidents and announced party action against unruly party activists. 

He made the comments at an emergency news conference held at the party’s central office in Dhaka amid growing allegations of mischief and internal clashes across the country.

Punitive measures have been taken in light of the 'zero tolerance' policy against wrongdoings, he said, noting that a Jubo Dal leader was expelled immediately after he was found involved in an attack on women in Banani.

Stating that BNP has never condoned mafia rule or terrorism, Rizvi said that strict steps are being taken to maintain the party's structural reforms and discipline and there is no compromise on this.

Earlier in the day, National Citizens Party (NCP) convener Nahid Islam demanded the throwing away of the current constitution at a road meeting in Nilphamari.

Responding to a reporter’s question about this, Rizvi said that talking about throwing away the constitution does not make it null and void.

He said that amending the constitution through additions and subtractions is part of democratic continuity. It is not possible for anyone to throw away the constitution.

The BNP senior joint secretary general said that the people have understood the intentions of those who want to impose an authoritarian perspective in the name of democracy.

He called for necessary reforms and a fair election, emphasising that only then will it be clear whose side the people are on.

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