Upazila BNP President Talukder Abul Kalam Azad has sparked a huge controversy over the procession and rally organized to mark the 47th founding anniversary of BNP in Rajapur, Jhalakati.
At a discussion meeting on Tuesday night, while calling for people to join the rally announced for Wednesday (September 3) at 3 pm, he said in his speech, "There is no Awami League, no Charmonai, no Jamaat in this rally, everyone will join." The video of his speech went viral as soon as it was spread on social media. It sparked widespread criticism in local political circles, including Facebook.
A section of BNP leaders have complained that such unwanted comments at important party events like the party's founding anniversary are not only unsightly, but are also creating confusion about party unity and strategy. According to them, such comments from a responsible position are politically unacceptable.
On the other hand, ordinary locals feel that President Abul Kalam Azad's statement questions the ideology and organizational policies of the BNP. Many say that as a result, political opponents are taking advantage and the party's image is being damaged.
Although there are differences of opinion among other leaders of the Upazila BNP on this issue, the storm of discussion and criticism has not stopped yet. Local political circles believe that such comments surrounding a joyful event like the founding anniversary have created discomfort within the party.
When we tried to inquire about this matter on the mobile phone of Upazila BNP President Talukder Abul Kalam Azad several times, he did not answer, so his statement could not be obtained.
In this regard, Jhalakathi District BNP Member Secretary Adv. Shahadat Hossain said that the responsibility of rehabilitating Awami League, Jamaat, and Charmonai has not been given to Rajapur Upazila BNP President Talukder Abul Kalam Azad from the party.
He further said that even though the Rajapur Upazila BNP General Secretary has been suspended from his post at the top level of the party.
He is still conducting political activities under the guidance of a certain leader, perhaps Abul Kalam Azad has made similar statements under the guidance of that leader. The party will not take responsibility for his statements.
