United News of Bangladesh

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Wednesday said spreading confusion in the name of religion can never be acceptable or proper politics. “They speak in the name of Islam but deceive people. They are saying that voting for the “Scale” symbol will ensure entry into heaven. No true Muslim can believe such claims,” he said in an oblique reference to Jamaat-e-Islami. The BNP leader was addressing a street rally at Kismat Daulatpur Dakhil Madrasah ground in Thakurgaon. Bangladesh to face danger if voters fail to make right choice: Fakhrul Fakhrul said prominent Islamic scholars, including those from Charmonai, have stated that ‘Jamaat-e-Islami is not an Islamic party’. He added that Muslims believe salvation depends on deeds, not symbols. “Only Allah decides who goes to heaven and that depends solely on one’s actions,” he said. The BNP secretary general said a political group, previously unseen in active politics, is now emerging ahead of the election. “There is no objection to anyone taking part in politics or elections but please do not lie, do not spread slander like backbiters and do not defame others,” he said. Referring to media reports, Fakhrul said the Jamaat Ameer had used obscene language against women. “Can a leader who cannot respect mothers and sisters, who speaks offensively about them, ever claim moral high ground or do good for society?” he questioned. The BNP leader said the people of the country had been deprived of their voting rights for the last 15 years.  “InshAllah, this time people will be able to vote and a free and fair election will be held,” he said. BNP believes in constructive politics and criticism, not personal attacks and its politics focuses on development and restoring people’s rights. Fakhrul said BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman has emerged very much in the footsteps of his father Shaeed President Ziaur Rahman. He said Tarique Rahman has announced a clear plan, including creating jobs for one crore youths within a year, introducing family cards for women, agriculture cards for farmers, and waiving agricultural loans up to Tk 10,000. If BNP comes to power, he stressed, the new government will take responsibility for repaying loans taken from NGOs. He urged voters to go to polling centres on January 12 and cast their votes in favour of BNP’s ‘Sheaf of Paddy’ symbol.