Awami League and BNP take different approaches to observe 30 December 

The ruling party has said democracy was reestablished in the country through the 11th parliamentary election held on 30 December 2018, while BNP marked it as "Democracy Killing Day."

Both parties observed the day by holding different events in the capital On Wednesday. 

Dhaka North City Unit of Awami League organized a discussion event at the Krishibid Institution auditorium, terming the day as "Victory Day of Democracy," while Dhaka city north and south units of BNP jointly organized a demonstration.

Attending Awami League's program as the chief guest, the party's General Secretary Obaidul Quader said, "In the 11th parliamentary election, people voted for development and prosperity, and to commemorate  the spirit of the liberation war, rejecting the anti-independence war criminals and communal evil."

He alleged that BNP has been continuing its traditional politics of conspiracy through its attempts to destroy democracy. 

"Even when Bangladesh is making steady progress, the defeated evil forces of 1971 are engaged in various conspiracies to derail our development and impede our democratic journey," Obaidul Quader, who is also the road transport and bridges minister.

He recalled that before and after the 10th parliamentary election held on 5 January 2014, the nefarious BNP-Jamaat alliance committed arson attacks across the country and created anarchy, threatening the continuity of democracy.

"Many civilians were killed, and hundreds of people were injured during those arson attacks, many of whom are still suffering," he continued.

"Under the leadership of Sheikh Hasina, Awami League is determined to establish and protect the democratic rights of the people and build a society based on the spirit of the great Liberation War," he added. 

Meanwhile, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, addressing their protest rally in front of the National Press Club, said, "A 'vote robbery' was committed on the eve of the 11th parliamentary election. The ruling Awami League government will be forced to step down through a united movement." 

"The government held a farcical election using the state machinery and formed a one-party government. The Awami League government has completely destroyed the electoral system", he added.

"Awami League repeats pro-democratic statements but wants an autocratic system," he said, adding that, "We have fought for democracy and will bring it back." 

Criticising the Election Commission, the BNP spokesperson said, "Neutral elections are not possible under this Election Commission...a neutral government is needed." 

He also expressed his doubts about electronic voting machines.

He also alleged that BNP leaders and activists were barred from coming to the protest rally.

Top leaders from both parties were present at their respective events and delivered remarks.