Dhaka, Feb 03 (V7N) — BNP-nominated candidate for the Dhaka-8 constituency, Mirza Abbas, addressed new political entrants on Tuesday morning, stressing that leadership cannot be achieved through slander.

“You cannot become a leader by slandering people. I have reached this position after going through many difficult paths in life,” he said during an election rally.

Mirza Abbas also emphasized his experience and personal integrity, recounting his decades-long involvement in politics and public service:

“I am 75 years old. I have reached this position by working with my own hands, not by stealing or robbing. I worked as a contractor in 1974, both in construction and electrical work. I know how to do the work myself.”

He encouraged respect for his legacy while delivering a metaphorical warning to critics:

“Ashes come out of the mouth of a stove, never gold. If you speak against me, you may make the news, but there are many ways to remain in the campaign,” he said.

Mirza Abbas, who has been active in Dhaka politics since 1977, asserted his unblemished record:

“Not a single person can say anything against me,” he added.

END/SMA/AJ