Dhaka, Sep 17 (V7N): BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has accused elements within the interim government, whom he referred to as "ghosts of the country's fascist past," of conspiring to undermine the victory achieved through the recent student-led uprising.

Speaking at a rally at Nayapaltan, Fakhrul urged the people not to squander the opportunity to establish democracy, which he said had been won through the students' sacrifices. He was addressing the rally alongside BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, who joined as the chief guest.

BNP Standing Committee Member Mirza Abbas echoed the sentiment, calling for the swift return of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina so that she could be tried for "17 years of oppression" against BNP members. Abbas warned the government that while the party was willing to allow time for elections, it would not offer an indefinite period.

Joint Secretary General Habibun Nabi Khan Sohel also criticized Sheikh Hasina for ignoring calls to establish a caretaker government, claiming that her allegiance to foreign powers had forced her into exile. Sohel sarcastically invited her to return, adding, "…Let her come! And where is Obaidul Quader? He said he wouldn't flee."

The rally, which began at 2:30 PM, was held to commemorate victims of political repression and mark International Democracy Day.

END/MSS/