DHAKA: Opposition BNP called nationwide demonstrations for August 26 in protest against the filing of “false” cases against party leader Tarique Rahman and cancellation of parole of his younger brother Arafat Rahman Koko.

Under the latest major action programme, they will also stage demonstrations in district headquarters on August 24.

BNP secretary-general Khondoker Delwar Hossain announced the program at a press conference, in the wake of series developments in the country’s political arena.

They demanded immediate withdrawal of the “false” cases filed against Tarique and reinstatement of parole for Koko.

Delwar urged the government to shun what he said the path of revenge and join the politics of development.  

Referring to the August 21 grenade attack, he said, “BNP also wants trial of the attackers as it is brutal and sad. But, its investigation and trial must not be politically motivated.”

Senior BNP leaders were present at the conference.  

BDST 2215 HRS AUGUST 22, 2010.