BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has accused the interim government of helping fugitive autocrats and their allies leave the country under the excuse of reform.

He made the allegation on Friday (May 9) while speaking as the chief guest at a reunion and greeting exchange programme organised by the Bangladesh Christian Forum in the capital’s Farmgate area.

Referring to former president Abdul Hamid’s departure, Tarique said, “Just as Sheikh Hasina fled during the public uprising, the former president has also fled. If we compare the situation, we will see that on August 5, another person also left the country.”

He claimed that people are now questioning whether the interim government knew about Abdul Hamid’s exit. “If they didn’t know, then what does this government know at all?” he asked.

Tarique said there is growing doubt among professionals and the public about whether the interim government is fulfilling its responsibilities properly. 

“Some believe that under the name of reform, the government is delaying intentionally to let autocrats and their collaborators leave safely. At the same time, they may be trying to divide the unity of anti-fascist political parties through various new issues,” he added.

He also alleged that recent activities suggest an attempt to rehabilitate those who supported fugitive autocrats, creating further questions in the public’s mind.

Despite the criticism, Tarique said the BNP supports the idea of an interim government that is accountable to the people.

He said, “This country does not belong to any one person or party. It is ours — yours and mine. After the fall of fascism, a great opportunity has come to restore people’s rights. We must work together to build a democratic and just state.”

Tarique warned that if a people’s government is not established, the country may face more suffering. “The last 15 years of fascist rule is a clear example of that. Let us all play our role to protect democracy and prevent future conspiracies.”

MSK/