Dhaka: Prime Minister’s Political Adviser Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Monday criticised Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami for what he described as fostering divisions in politics, warning that continued discord could pave the way for the return of deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. “Why are you (Jamaat) following Sheikh Hasina’s path? If you follow her path, we will remain trapped in that same darkness. If this division and discord continue, Sheikh Hasina will clap in satisfaction and try to return to Bangladesh by parachute,” he said.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Rizvi, who also serves as the BNP senior joint secretary general, made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a discussion titled “Contribution of Nurses to Bloodstained July” and a documentary screening at the Bangladesh Medical University auditorium in the capital. He emphasized that the July uprising has a profound philosophic foundation that guarantees citizens’ freedom, the right to speak, and the right to live without fear.
The BNP leader noted that the July uprising was the culmination of 17 years of bloodshed and continuous democratic struggle. “Hundreds of leaders and activists of BNP, Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal, and other associate bodies sacrificed their lives during this movement,” he added. He accused Sheikh Hasina of using state institutions “in a disgraceful manner” to suppress political dissent and citizens’ rights.
Rizvi urged those entering politics today to develop a healthier political culture, emphasizing that the politics of hatred and division must stop. “Otherwise, the fall of authoritarianism will lose its significance,” he remarked. Highlighting the role of nurses during the July uprising, he praised their remarkable example of humanity, supporting injured students and protesters on the streets.
“Nurses are the frontline soldiers of humanity. It is impossible to improve the country’s overall healthcare system while neglecting this vital sector,” Rizvi stated. He alleged that the previous authoritarian government had pushed the health sector towards destruction, while the current government is working to reform it.
The event was also attended by BNP Health Affairs Secretary Prof Dr Rafiqul Islam and Prime Minister’s Political Assistant Md Rashed Khan, who were present as special guests.