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Jatiya Party Chairman GM Quader has alleged that a conspiracy is afoot to undermine his party's activities and political standing, reports bdnews24.com.
Speaking on Saturday during the first day of the party’s extended meeting held at his office in Banani, Quader said, “There is a deliberate plot to prevent us from organising our party council. Whenever we try to rent a hall, we're refused. No one is willing to give us one.”
“This is a strategy to drive us out of politics, to take away the party symbol of the plough. We must stand up against this. We need to stay active in the field -- this is a battlefield, and we must not abandon it. We will remain in the field.”
The Jatiya Party is holding its extended meeting over Saturday and Sunday at a time when the party faces increasing scrutiny in the wake of the Awami League government's fall.
Quader also dismissed claims that his party was driven by "opportunism" or "self-interest".
“Let me be very clear about one thing: under my leadership, the Jatiya Party will never again engage in self-serving or opportunistic politics. Anyone with such intentions will not have a place in this party.”
Since 2008, the Jatiya Party has contested four elections through alliances or agreements with the Awami League. That long-standing association has drawn criticism in the current political climate, with many accusing the party of being a collaborator or ally of the Awami League.
However, Quader has repeatedly rejected these allegations and said he has openly criticised the Sheikh Hasina government.
He reiterated that stance, saying: “There’s a lot of misinformation being spread about us by various quarters. Some people are trying to harass us in different ways. They are twisting our words through statements and commentary on Facebook and other social media platforms. A particular group keeps blaming us again and again.”
“They accuse us of being opportunistic and self-serving. But that is not the kind of political party we are. Sure, they may cite some examples, but we want to state firmly that the majority of Jatiya Party members have always stood with the people. They have always fought for the people's interests and will continue to do so.”