PM has lied to the world: Fakhrul

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina lied to the world when she blamed in her UN speech the BNP-Jamaat-e-Islami alliance for terrorism in Bangladesh, BNP leader Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said.

"The prime minister in New York has said that BNP-Jamaat was behind the terrorism and unrest in the country and stood against the people. This is a sheer lie," the BNP acting Secretary General claimed.

He said this at a discussion marking the foundation anniversary of 'Zia Sangskritik Songothon' on Sunday, a day after Hasina addressed the 69th United Nations General Assembly.

"BNP is not a terror group. We don't believe in terrorism and unrest. Awami League is the party of terrorists," Fakhrul claimed.

He alleged the prime minister had lied about the people of the country.

Addressing the UN on Saturday, Hasina said, "Under the direct patronage of the BNP-Jamaat alliance government from 2001 to 2006, terrorist outfits carried out bomb and grenade attacks, killing secular political leaders and activists."

Fakhrul countered by saying: "Our 310 leaders and activists have been killed, and 65 others abducted until now by this government's law enforcement agencies and henchmen."

The BNP spokesperson tried to revive the flagging spirit of party supporters, frustrated after failing to thwart the last general election, by urging them to overcome despondency and participate in the party’s ongoing movement.

"I would like to tell those who are feeling frustrated that this government is in power illegally. They won't be staying long. They will have to go," he said in an effort to boost morale.