Mentioning that the government will not obstruct any peaceful protests of BNP, Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader on Tuesday warned that resorting to any violent elements in the name of movement will invite stern action.

He issued the warning at a press conference at the AL president’s Dhanmondi political office.

Quader, also road transport and bridges minister, said if the movement incorporates violent activities, terrorism or arson, obstructions will be inevitable. “Why would we obstruct if they organise peaceful programmes?” he said.

Regarding the current political agenda of BNP, he said blaming the government is the main issue of opposition politics in Bangladesh.

The AL leader criticised the opposition for accusing the government of any and every crime and even complaining to the United States. “BNP leader Moyeen Khan has complained to the US Embassy about the lack of human rights and democracy in the country. This is the state of our main opposition party,” he said.

About the claim of BNP leaders that the Awami League lost and BNP won the election, he said, “Everyone knows who won the election. Did BNP win without participating in it? It’s nothing but the raving of a lunatic.”

Responding to a query about the clash of the Bangladesh Chhatra League at the University of Chittagong, Quader mentioned, “Actions are being taken, and new considerations are being made. The party has decided to be as strict as necessary to prevent the recurrence of such incidents.”