The Awami League issued a 36-day ultimatum to BNP to leave the path of negative politics on Monday. “Within 36 days, BNP should leave its arson terrorism, sabotage and conspiring against the democracy otherwise people will resist them,” AL general secretary Obaidul Quader said, while speaking at a ‘peace and development rally’ organised by the Dhaka Metropolitan North unit Awami League, held in the city’s Uttara.

Issuing a warning, the Road Transport and Bridges Minister said “If BNP comes with arms then those hands must be broken and if they (BNP) come with fire, then those hands should be burnt.” BNP has now ridden on the visa policy while Awami League depends on the power of people, he said.

“Elections should not be held in Bangladesh under anyone’s restrictions and we do not care about the US visa policy. We just care about the people of the country. We will hold our election as per the constitution,” said Obaidul.

Noting that BNP failed to carry out movement for 36 minutes for the release of its chairperson, the Awami League leader said “We give you (BNP) 36-day, please get back on the right path.” He also urged the BNP to participate in the election. “There is only scope to participate in the election. If you (BNP) do not participate in the election you will be defeated before taking part in the game.”

Presided over by the Dhaka Metropolitan North Awami League President Sheikh Bazlur Rahman, Awami League joint general secretary Mahbubul Alam Hanif, organizing secretary Mirza Azam, Dhaka Metropolitan North Awami League general secretary SM Mannan Kochi and leaders of central unit Awami League spoke at the rally.