Shafiqur-Nahid-Mamunul trio can change political equation: Oli

Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) President Col (retd) Oli Ahmed has said the fall of the government would become inevitable within a week if Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman, National Citizen Party (NCP) leader Nahid Islam, and Hefazat-e-Islam leader Shaikhul Hadith Mamunul Haque join forces.

Speaking as the chair of a divisional rally of the 11-party alliance in Sylhet on Saturday (July 25), Oli made the remarks while addressing the gathering.

He said the three leaders, if united, would be capable of mobilising 2-3 million people in Dhaka at any time. “They can block roads in Tongi, Sayedabad and Mirpur. You have to understand which direction the country is heading. Do not be influenced by others; think about the people of the country,” he said.

Addressing Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, Oli said a person should not simultaneously hold the positions of prime minister, leader of parliament and party chief. He added that the 11-party alliance had proposed separating these roles, but the proposal was not accepted.

“Do not become the prime minister of BNP only; become the prime minister of the people of Bangladesh,” he said.

Oli further warned that if the aspirations of the people are not reflected in governance, there would be no option left in the future except the slogan: 'One point, one demand, when will this government leave?'

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer and Leader of the Opposition Dr Shafiqur Rahman attended the rally as the chief guest. NCP Convener and Opposition Chief Whip Nahid Islam, Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis Ameer Maulana Muminul Haque, and leaders of the parties under the 11-party alliance also addressed the event.

-HIS