Quader urges AL workers not to respond to 'any instigation' over Khaleda verdict

Obaidul Quader has warned the Awami League workers not to fall into the trap by responding to instigation by the BNP over the verdict on Khaleda Zia's graft case.

The general secretary sounded the warning after a number of the Awami League affiliates announced they would be vigilant on the street even though the ruling party did not announce any programme for Thursday when the verdict is due.

Quader spoke at a news briefing after a meeting with the party's secretaries and leaders of its affiliates at the party chief's Dhanmondi office on Tuesday.

"Do not provoke or instigate anything. It's an order from the party," Quader said.

"We are in power; why should we create chaos? Why would the ruling party disturb the peaceful situation that is prevailing in the country, why bring turmoil?" he asked.

Tension boiled over the verdict after police came under attack by the BNP activists during one of the recent court hearings. The verdict would also coincide with the SSC examinations.

"If they create a situation, like attack the police prison van, the law enforcers will tackle the situation.

"If necessary, the Awami League activists would stand beside the law enforcers to protect the people and their properties," Quader added.

According to him, the police had intelligence that the BNP activists might try sabotage in Dhaka and Chittagong.

The BNP alleges its party chief has been framed in the case and the impending verdict has been dictated by the government.

But Quader said, "The government has no interest in this verdict."

"Why should we interfere? Khaleda Zia is not our enemy, the BNP is not our enemy. But, BNP considers us as its enemy.

“We consider them as our political opponents. If they do not treat us as the enemy, then why was their founder behind the Bangabandhu killing?" he questioned.

Quader also spoke about the party's preparation for 11th parliamentary elections slated for later this year.