A.S.M. Nasim, Noakhali Correspondent: On the anniversary of the historic student-led mass uprising, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) organized a spirited victory rally in Companiganj, Noakhali. The event took place this afternoon at the bustling Basurhat Bazaar, drawing participation from BNP activists, as well as members of its student and youth wings.
Following the rally, a brief assembly was held at the Basurhat Zero Point, where Companiganj Upazila BNP leader and industrialist Fakhrul Islam addressed the crowd as the chief guest. In his speech, Fakhrul Islam delivered pointed remarks on internal party discipline and national political dynamics.
He revealed that a list of 12,000 alleged extortionists had been compiled across the country and emphasized that BNP’s acting chairman, Tarique Rahman, had made it clear that the party would not take responsibility for anyone committing extortion under its name. “Many games are being played ahead of the election,” he warned, criticizing opportunists seeking leadership roles without prior political accountability.
Fakhrul Islam also took aim at certain local BNP figures, cautioning against the emergence of another “Mirza Quader” in the region. He made a controversial reference to Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader, alleging that he once hid in a bathroom for seven hours during political unrest. “We must ensure our party doesn’t face such disgrace due to internal missteps,” he said.
He strongly opposed forming party committees with individuals accused of extortion, warning that if such decisions were made in exchange for favors, the people of Companiganj would resist fiercely. He also criticized political exploitation surrounding the death of Tota Chairman, urging party members not to politicize the tragedy.
Fakhrul concluded by stating, “We seek justice for the guilty, but innocent people must not be harassed.”
The rally was attended by leaders and activists from various unions of Companiganj’s BNP, Chhatra Dal, and Jubo Dal, reflecting a strong grassroots presence.
