BNP internally preparing for polls: Quader

BNP will participate in the upcoming parliamentary elections regardless of what its leaders are publicly saying, said Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader. 

"We know BNP is internally preparing for the election. BNP is a big political party and we too want them to take part in the polls," he said while talking to reporters at his secretariat office on Wednesday.

Quader, also the road transport and bridges minister, said, "All BNP wants is to topple the government. That is why they are holding anti-government rallies in different parts of the country."

"Our apprehension is that BNP can once again get involved with arson violence," he said while issuing a warning that any such action will be thwarted.

Regarding the International Monetary Fund (IMF) loan, he said, "The effect of global crises has now permeated to the national level, mounting more pressure on the country's foreign reserves. Therefore, foreign currency inflow is needed."

When asked about the party's upcoming 22nd National Council on 24 December, the ruling party leader said this year's national council will be concluded in a day to maintain austerity in view of the global crisis as advised by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

The coming days might see intensifying crises due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine War, he warned, while noting that the country is doing much better compared to neighbours like Pakistan and Sri Lanka.