BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed on Saturday accused ousted prime minister and death-row convict Sheikh Hasina of prioritising the interests of a neighbouring country over those of Bangladesh.
While addressing a women's rally at the Shaheed Hossain Chowdhury High School ground in Islamnagar, Kayerbil Union, Chakaria upazila, Salahuddin said, "Her primary objectives in staying in power were to plunder the nation's wealth and place the country under external influence."
"She never showed genuine trust, commitment, or responsibility towards Bangladesh and its people."
Reflecting on the past 16-17 years, he alleged that the people of Bangladesh were systematically deprived of their voting rights and democratic freedoms under the Awami League government's "fascist" rule. "Although a nominal constitutional and democratic system existed, in reality Sheikh Hasina established a one-party governing structure," he added.
Salahuddin also questioned why many continue to support the Awami League despite what he described as Hasina's flight to India along with other party leaders during a mass uprising. "Bangladesh will be rebuilt in line with the expectations of its people and its martyrs," he said.
Turning to the upcoming national election, scheduled for February, Salahuddin said it would mark "the beginning of change".
He emphasised that the people themselves would protect their voting rights, leaving no need for external intervention.
"A historic election will be held in the first week of February," he added, noting that the Election Commission is expected to announce the official schedule within the current week.
Former MP Hasina Ahmed, Cox's Bazar District BNP General Secretary Shamim Ara Swapna, Chakaria BNP President Enamul Haque, General Secretary M Mobarak Ali, and several other party leaders were also present at the rally.
Earlier in the day, Salahuddin took part in mass campaigning in Fasiakhali, Kakara, Lakshyar Char, and Baraitali unions, where he addressed several roadside gatherings.