BNP Standing Committee Member Mirza Abbas has claimed that a new 'minus-two formula', backed by local and international quarters, is now in effect to depoliticise Bangladesh by sidelining BNP following the Awami League, reports UNB.
In an interview with the news agency, Abbas also voiced deep concern over what he described as a serious conspiracy against the country's sovereignty and national interests focusing on Saint Martin's Island, Sajek in Khagrachhari and New Mooring Container Terminal, being pushed by allegedly quarters with 'evil intentions'.
The BNP leader lamented that some political parties have fallen into the trap of such conspirators by attempting to derail the upcoming national election with various excuses.
He warned that the nation would have to pay a heavy price if the national election is not held in February as announced by Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus.
"A new minus-two formula is at play in Bangladesh politics, similar to the minus-two formula during the 1/11 period. While the earlier attempt was carried out under an army-backed interim government, the current effort is being pursued in different forms by both local and foreign actors," Abbas said.
As part of the moves, he said, vested groups are attempting to portray BNP as a 'bad' or 'unreliable' political force to isolate it from the people, often through coordinated social media campaigns and political propaganda.
He alleged that some Awami elements within the administration, along with certain political and ideological groups, are still working to weaken BNP. "They think they will be able to rule the country if BNP is sidelined while top Awami League leaders remain outside the country."
Abbas said those seeking to keep Bangladesh unstable are attempting to enforce the minus-two formula for their own benefit. "During 1/11, the so-called minus-two formula appeared in one form, as there was a military-backed government at that time. Now, with Awami League out of office, a different kind of minus-BNP formula is in opeation."
Asked who are behind it, Abbas said the same local and international masterminds are trying to carry it out in a new way. "Satan can take many disguises," he remarked, suggesting that the actors may appear in different forms this time, their goal remains the same.
The aim is to weaken or sideline BNP so that the country's politics can be controlled to serve their interest, he said, adding, both local and foreign conspirators are active in this scheme.
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