BNP: Indian policymakers trying to rehabilitate Awami

DHAKA: Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Friday accused India of conspiring to "rehabilitate" Awami League, labelling it a "fascist" party."Indian policymakers cannot accept the downfall of Sheikh Hasina.

Following the meeting between Muhammad Yunus and Tarique Rahman (BNP) in London, the neighbouring country began orchestrating targetted conspiracies," said senior BNP member Ruhul Kabir Rizvi.

Rizvi said that while the people of Bangladesh have begun their journey toward democracy, key challenges remain. "Conspiracies are not over. Many BNP activists - both at the grassroots and national levels - are still missing.

Others continue to face harassment through false cases and arbitrary arrests." Describing the Awami govt as authoritarian, Rizvi said, "Although we can speak more freely today, the conspiracies resumed the moment Yunus and Tarique met." He further said Awami League had embezzled public funds over past 16 years and laundered the money to countries such as Canada and Malaysia. "Hasina has tried to manipulate public opinion through media control, but 180 million people cannot be silenced. " Meanwhile, a nine-member BNP team, is scheduled to depart for China on Sunday at the invitation of Communist Party of China.