Attempts being made to destabilise country by circulating black money: Rizvi

BNP Senior Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has alleged that a large number of illicit money, allegedly siphoned abroad or concealed domestically during the Awami League government, is being used to plot unrest, bomb attacks and acts of sabotage in Bangladesh.

He accused what he called the 'defeated fascist forces' of attempting to destabilise the country and derail its progress, urging pro-democracy political parties and the public to remain vigilant around the clock.

Rizvi made the remarks at a discussion and award ceremony organised by the Bangladesh Janadhikar Party at the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh auditorium in Dhaka on Tuesday. 

The event focused on the role of politicians and professionals in the prolonged anti-authoritarian movement and the July uprising.

He alleged that although a substantial portion of the illicit money had been transferred abroad, a significant amount remained inside the country and could be channelled into efforts to create instability.

“Attempts are being made to implement a blueprint for destabilising the country by circulating this black money,” Rizvi said, adding that the government and law enforcement agencies were alert and working to thwart such alleged conspiracies.

Criticising the economic record of the previous Awami League government led by Sheikh Hasina, Rizvi alleged that the banking, insurance and other sectors had been severely damaged during her tenure.

He cited the country's reported defaulted loan burden of Tk 607,000 crore, accusing people close to the former prime minister and the Awami League of misappropriating public funds under the guise of loans.

Despite the heavy debt burden and fragile economic conditions, he said, the current government was working to rebuild the country.

Rizvi praised young people and student leaders for their role in the July uprising and the broader anti-authoritarian movement, saying their courage had helped pave the way for the restoration of democracy.

Rizvi also urged political parties and civil society to remain alert to any attempts to disrupt communal harmony during the upcoming Durga Puja celebrations.