State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Yasser Khan Choudhury on Saturday urged deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to return to Bangladesh and face trial, saying the government would even arrange a ticket for her if necessary.
“The government will provide a ticket if needed,” he said while addressing a rally as the chief guest at Chandipasha School ground in Nandail, marking National Revolution and Solidarity Day.
Addressing Hasina directly, the state minister said, “You killed people and fled the country. Now you are only issuing threats through social media. But the people of Bangladesh have understood those threats. So, you must return to the country. Come back now without hiding. We will even provide you with a ticket, if necessary.”
He said those responsible for depriving people of their voting rights, corruption, looting, enforced disappearances and killings over the years would be brought to justice in Bangladesh. Those responsible for the deaths of women and children during the July uprising would also face trial, he added.
Addressing local party activists and people at the rally, Yasser said the country was moving towards development under the leadership of BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman.
He urged everyone to remain alert against conspiracies and attempts to create disorder by those seeking to obstruct the country's progress.
He also advised people to hand over anyone they considered suspicious to law enforcement agencies.
Highlighting development activities in Nandail, the state minister said 186 roads had already been improved through brick soling, while allocations had been secured for another 104 roads.
He said Tk 11.5 crore had also been allocated for the renovation of various roads.
Besides, 36 houses had been built for homeless people, while plans had been taken to construct another 104 houses this year, he said.
Yasser also said work was under way to build bridges in Jahangirpur and Charbetagair. The process of approving new buildings for 23 educational institutions was also under way.
Regarding the upcoming Union Parishad elections, he said BNP-backed candidates would be selected based on public opinion and surveys.
He called upon party leaders and activists to ensure the victory of qualified candidates committed to development and democracy.
Thanking party activists and people who attended the rally from different unions and wards, Yasser said he had always worked as one of them and wanted to continue serving them.
“We will remain united in our efforts for development, in public life and against all conspiracies,” he said.