BNP, its allies destroy what we build: PM

Taking a swipe at BNP and its allies, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday said they only know how to carry out destruction.

“We focus on creation and they [BNP and its allies] resort to destruction.”

She was speaking at the inauguration of the 102-km Dohazari-Cox’s Bazar rail line in Cox’s Bazar.

Recalling BNP-Jamaat’s arson terrorism, she added, “Their mind is filled with darkness.

“Those who can kill people by carrying out arson on buses, trucks, and trains are not blind at all. Their mind is filled with darkness.”

Hasina, also the Awami League president, urged all to remain vigilant against the BNP and its allies. She warned that destruction and burning people will not be tolerated.

Referring to the construction of the Bangabandhu Bridge over the Jamuna, she said the World Bank at that time said rail link would not be viable.

“What’s interesting is that the rail is very viable now and the World Bank came up with a proposal to build a separate rail bridge over the Jamuna,” she said, adding she accepted the proposal at once.

The PM said the government will take effective measures to ensure people from every corner of the country can travel to Cox’s Bazar by train.

Giving a brief on the development activities by her government to flourish the country’s railway sector, Hasina said the sector will be improved to match the global standard within 4-5 years.

Edimon Ginting, country director for Asian Development Bank, and Railways Ministry Secretary Md Humayun Kabir also spoke at the event, chaired by Railways Minister Nurul Islam Sujan.

‘VOTE FOR AWAMI LEAGUE’

Addressing a rally in Maheshkhali upazila yesterday afternoon, Hasina once again urged the people to vote for AL in the next general election to help the government finish the incomplete development programmes.

The meeting was organised by Maheshkhali Upazila AL at the township ground built under the Matarbari thermal power plant project.

She said AL was able to form three consecutive governments as people voted it to power.

Talking about inflation, she blamed the increasing inflation on Russia-Ukraine war, sanctions and counter sanctions.

“We have taken steps to curb inflation. Its inflation rate will come down soon and people will be able to live a better life,” the PM said.

Coming down heavily on BNP and its allies for arson, the PM said a person with humanity cannot burn anyone alive.

“Their only job is to burn people alive and destroy property … The people have to be cautious.”

Hasina further said she is ready to make any sacrifice for the development and welfare of the people. “If needed, I am ready to sacrifice my blood like my father did. My only job is to ensure your welfare.”

Information and Broadcasting Minister Hasan Mahmud, and local AL lawmaker Asheq Ullah Rafiq also spoke at the rally.