Conspiratorial forces plot 1/11-like situation to disrupt election: Rashed Khan

JHENAIDAH, Dec 06 (UNB): Rashed Khan, Secretary General of Gono Odhikar Parishad on Friday alleged that a conspiratorial group has begun plotting to create a situation in the country similar to 1/11 in order to disrupt the upcoming elections.

He claimed that the group is scheming to reinstate Sheikh Hasina in power. "We make it clear that no one will be allowed to sabotage the elections scheduled for February," he said.

He added that no one will be given any opportunity, whether through lawsuits or other means, to postpone the elections. "The elections must take place in February. We trust that the government will ensure an environment conducive to free and fair elections," he told reporters after a street meeting at Mandia Bazar in Harinakundu Upazila.

Responding to remarks by Shafiqul Alam, Press Secretary to the Chief Advisor of the interim government, about whether the Jatiya Party would participate in the elections, Rashed Khan criticised the statement. "You are serving in the interim government but failing to uphold the aspirations of the July popular Uprising. You are being lenient toward fascist allies and the Awami League. The public will not accept this stance, and we will not remain silent," he said. Addressing the International Crimes Tribunal, he stated that while the tribunal has begun prosecuting Awami League members, the Jatiya Party and other 14 alliance parties should also face justice. "Those Awami League leaders who participated in the 2024 sham elections will have no place in the upcoming elections," he added.

On election alliances, Rashed Khan said Gono Odhikar Parishad has already announced candidates for 200 seats and that he is campaigning in Jhenaidah-2. He noted that the party has coordinated movements with BNP since 2022 and is in discussions with them and other anti-fascist forces. "A final announcement on alliances will be made once the election schedule is declared," he added.

Earlier, the district branch of Gono Odhikar Parishad organised a street meeting at Mandia Bazar, where Rashed Khan was the chief guest. c