Information and Broadcasting Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud on Friday said when BNP activists have expressed their relief over the recovery of BNP leader Khaleda Zia, its leaders have got upset as it has dampened their so-called movement.  

“BNP leaders are disappointed as Begum Zia has returned home after her recovery. Because doctors have poured water on their countrywide meetings and rallies, demanding that she be sent abroad (for treatment),” he said.

The minister made the remarks while talking to reporters after his meeting with leaders of Bangladesh Sampadak Forum (A forum of editors) at his official residence in the capital, said a PID handout.

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He said doctors have said Begum Zia has recovered a lot though she has arthritis and old-age problems.

When his attention was drawn to remarks of BNP leader Ruhul Kabir Rizvi that Khaleda Zia is still ill and she has to be taken abroad for treatment, Dr Hasan questioned if any doctor sends a critically sick patient back home. “Rizvi Saheb is talking rubbish out of frustration,” he said.

On the other hand, he said, the BNP activists want Begum Zia to recover and return home. “They expressed their relief, but there’s no relief among the leaders with it,” said the minister.

Dr Hasan, also joint general secretary of Bangladesh Awami League, said Bangladesh has progressed a lot. But those who do not like this development and progress are carrying out various conspiracies against Bangladesh and spreading misinformation among foreigners in a bid to hinder the country’s export, trade and overall development.

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He expected that the forum to continue its role against these conspiracies so that the spirit of the Liberation War remains upheld and the people not get misled due to such propagandas.

Adviser of the editors’ forum Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury and convener Rafiqul Islam Ratan, among others, were present at the meeting.