In a significant gesture of international diplomacy, US President Joe Biden has extended a letter of commitment to work in unison with Bangladesh across various sectors, including the economy. This announcement has sparked a pointed query from Obaidul Quader, general secretary of Awami League and the Minister of Road Transport and Bridges, directed towards the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP): “What will BNP say now?” Committed to supporting Bangladesh's economic goals, Biden writes to PM Hasina During a press interaction at the Awami League President’s office in Dhanmondi, Dhaka, earlier today (February 05), Quader criticized the BNP leadership for their absence and evasion, questioning the source of their confidence in regaining power. He remarked, “The people have already distanced themselves from you. Your international allies have also turned their backs. The US has now pledged to work alongside Sheikh Hasina’s government. What hope does the BNP have for returning to power?” Quader also expressed concern over the recent conflicts near the Myanmar border, where violence has forced citizens from several Bangladeshi villages to flee. The ongoing internal conflict in Myanmar, resulting in gunfire and mortar shells landing within Bangladeshi territory, has prompted communication between the foreign ministries of Bangladesh and Myanmar. “The conflict is Myanmar’s internal issue, but its resolution should ensure that the panic does not spill over to neighboring countries,” Quader added, mentioning the potential role of the United Nations in mediating a solution. Programmes on streets without permission won’t be allowed: Quader Addressing the issue of the Rohingya refugees amid Myanmar’s continued unrest, the minister firmly stated that Bangladesh would not show leniency in accepting more refugees: “We cannot bear this burden anymore.” In response to a question about negative activities within the student wing of the ruling party at Jahangirnagar University, Quader emphasized Awami League’s zero tolerance for misconduct. “Not everyone in a party can be virtuous, but we do not condone wrongdoing. Any criminal activity should be dealt with according to the law. No one has been spared for committing crimes while we are in power,” he asserted. Can the new Parliament perform its role perfectly, wonders GM Quader The meeting was also attended by Awami League’s Organizational Secretary BM Mozammel Haque, SM Kamal Hossain, and other central and metropolitan leaders.

Awami League General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader today (January 18, 2024) said that the report of Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) is “one-sided and anti-government.”  “They (TIB) are agents of BNP,” he said at a press briefing at the Awami League president’s office in Dhaka’s Dhanmondi this afternoon. “TIB speaks in the tune of BNP. History says that they were always against Awami League. They speak for BNP. We could not find impartiality of their research,” said the AL leader. “There are some organisations that talk about accidents. If a hundred die, they say five hundred died. TIB is like them. TIB and CPD said Padma Bridge is impossible. Filing a case doesn’t solve everything. Some are said for public perception. They will be dealt with politically,” he said. Read more: Top 5% contractors account for 26% market share in government procurement: TIB TIB in its report on Wednesday said Bangladesh’s 12th parliamentary election was “not free and not inclusive.” Quader acknowledged the existence of political tactics and conflicts within parties, asserting, “Conflicts are inherent in politics, and Awami League navigates through them under the leadership of Sheikh Hasina. The party remains united in addressing challenges wherever they arise.” Addressing upcoming local government elections, Quader said, “Decisions regarding local government elections, including upazilas, and the use of party symbols will be finalized in the Awami League board meeting.” When asked who would be the opposition party in the parliament, Quader responded, “Clarity on the opposition party will emerge once the session commences.” Regarding commodity prices, Quader noted, “Sheikh Hasina has provided instructions on commodity prices. Ministries are formulating action plans based on the ground reality, including price control measures.” Read more: Even if action can’t be taken now, strong measures will be taken after election: Quader on those whose wealth saw abnormal increase The press briefing was attended by AL Organizing Secretary BM Mozammel Haque, SM Kamal Hossain, Sujit Roy Nandi, among other leaders.

Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader today (November 27, 2023) said that permission for party leaders to run as independent candidates in the upcoming national election is a “strategic decision”. “Awami League is moving forward, changing strategy as per the need of the hour. There is no bar to dummy candidates following the guideline of the party chief (Sheikh Hasina),” he said. Obaidul Quader came up with the remarks after paying homage to Dr Shamsul Alam Khan Milon marking Shaheed Dr Milon Day on Dhaka University premises. Read: 71 AL MPs fail to get party tickets to run election He said that Awami League doesn’t need companions, as people are its strength. BNP needs accomplices for their misdeeds, said the AL leader. People of the country have been eagerly waiting for the election along with party leaders and activists as election season has already started in the country, he said. Read: AL nominates 9 new faces in Dhaka constituencies Quader, also road, transport and bridges minister, said that the upcoming election has generated a massive tide of public support that can’t be foiled by sporadic bombings and arson attacks. The Awami League general secretary also alleged that BNP is now hatching a conspiracy to foil the election after its movement failed. Read more: AL picks actor Ferdous for Dhaka-10

Awami League General Secretary and Bangladesh's Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader on Thursday (October 19, 2023) said the caretaker government system has been laid to rest in Azimpur graveyard. "Why would the prime minister resign? Don't call for the caretaker government again. The path that BNP is taking is the wrong path. BNP is now on the verge of collapse after a failed movement,” he said. Also read: BNP will be blocked if it enforces blockades: Obaidul Quader Quader was speaking after the inauguration of 150 bridges and 14 overpasses at Sharak Bhaban in Dhaka's Tejgaon on Thursday morning. In his speech, the AL leader highlighted the development of Bangladesh in the last 15 years and said that this transformation is considered a marvel by the world. “This has been possible due to the creative leadership of Bangabandhu's daughter, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.” Also read: BNP wants to indulge in evil game of 1/11 with Dr Yunus at the helm: Quader "If you want to protect the development of this country, the achievements of this country, the democracy of this country, if you love the country, then there is no alternative to Sheikh Hasina," he added. “Don't they see that the Prime Minister of Britain respects the Prime Minister of Bangladesh? The President of the United States took photos at the G-20 (with Sheikh Hasina) and also in New York,” he said. Also read: BNP is not happy with good news of increase in remittances: Quader Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan; Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on the Ministry of Road Transport and Bridges, Begum Raushan Ara Mannan, spoke on the occasion, among others.

The next national election of Bangladesh will be held as per the constitution under the independent Election Commission, Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader has said. “The election won’t stop for any political party. There are multiple political parties who want to join the election. Why do you think that election won’t be acceptable if one or two parties do not participate? To participate in the election is a political right, and if a party doesn’t use it, that’s up to them,” he said.  The Road Transport and Bridges Minister came up with the remarks while talking to reporters after placing a wreath on the grave of Sheikh Russel at Banani Graveyard in Dhaka. Today (October 18, 2023) marks the 60th birth anniversary of the youngest son of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Next polls will be held as per constitution: Obaidul Quader “The law enforcing agencies are arresting those who were involved in arson, vandalism and were accused in arms and murder cases,” Quader said. Khandaker Mushtaq and Ziaur Rahman had started the politics of murder and conspiracy in the country in 1975 and their successor BNP is still continuing it, said the Awami League leader.  Obaidul Quader says dragging out dead caretaker system will bring no gain Expressing the determination to eradicate the politics of murder and conspiracy under the leadership of Sheikh Hasina, he said, “Our fight will continue until we make the country safe and livable for innocent children like Sheikh Russel.” Awami League leaders and activists led by its general secretary placed wreaths on the grave of Sheikh Russel and offered munajat there. Game to be played in October, December, and in first week of January: Obaidul Quader

Road Transport and Bridges Minister and Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader today (October 05, 2023) said that he was not wrong when he said “a lot is going on behind the scenes.” He said this while exchanging views with journalists at the conference room of the Road Transport and Highways Department, at the Secretariat. Also read: No worries over visa policy, PM reached understanding with all: Quader Regarding his earlier remark that there has been some “agreement or consensus”, Quader said, “The issue of rumours and propaganda in our country has become rampant. According to rumours, the relationship between Bangladesh and the United States has deteriorated. Such rumours and misinformation have spread widely. This is not desirable at this time.” “Don’t you understand what I said? No one was aware for a week about the meeting with the US security adviser. So, there’s a lot going on behind the scenes, and I wasn’t wrong,” Quader added. Also read: Hasina and Biden have discussed importance of free, fair elections in Bangladesh as well as improving relations During her recent visit to Washington DC, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina held a meeting with US National Security Adviser, Jake Sullivan. “Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her daughter took a selfie with Joe Biden. That was being discussed. There was still some talk. Reaching consensus behind the scenes means improving relations. That’s what I meant,” the AL leader clarified. When pointed out that many are taking the “behind the scenes” expression negatively, he said, “If anyone wants to take it negatively, it is up to them. At public rallies, people want excitement… which is why exciting words like “toley toley”, “khela hobe” are used.” Also read: Bangladesh not safe in BNP's hands: Quader Responding to a question on relationship with China, Quader said, “China has a role to play in our development activities. We can’t bypass that. We are taking their help.”

Bangladesh Awami League's General Secretary Obaidul Quader on Sunday (January 08, 2023) urged the party leaders and activists to get prepared for the next national election, noting that the final game will be held in January next year. “The final game will be held in January next year,” he said. He made the remarks while addressing the Jatiya Party (JP) tri-annual council at the Engineers’ Institute auditorium in the capital on Sunday afternoon. Also Read: We don't need leaders, want smart workers: Obaidul Quader tells BCL Mentioning his slogan ‘Game will be played’ as a kind of political humor, he said, “There  will be game against corruption, drugs, conspiracy, communalism, militancy, and for the sake of protecting democracy.” He urged the party leaders and activists to get prepared for the next election and said “Good people are not in politics these days. We have failed to make politics appealing.” Stating that the reputation of student politics has gone, he said, “Politics will become characterless without the participation of good, honest, and bright individuals.” Read More: BNP to get fitting response if it resorts to violence: Quader Noting that democracy is crucial to saving Bangladesh, the Al leader also said that there is no alternative to Sheikh Hasina for continuing the country's development spree.

Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader on Saturday asked the BNP to get ready to face defeat in the race of movement and election. He came up with the remark while addressing a rally before bringing out a procession over the Victory Day organised by north and south units of the ruling party on Engineers’ Institution premises near the Suhrawardy Udyan in the capital as chief guest. Accusing the BNP of instigating the US on the security issue, he said, “We are assuring the US envoy that there is no security threat in Bangladesh, and all are secured in the country”. Read more: Vested quarters out to destroy democracy: PM Minister for Information and Broadcasting Hasan Mahmud said those who are working for Pakistan as collaborators will be buried and any anti-state attempts will not be allowed to succeed. The party’s Joint General Secretary Mahbubul Alam Hanif said the anti-liberation forces BNP-Jamaat will be removed from politics to keep development and advancement of the country on track. He said there will be no rights to do politics by the anti-liberation forces--BNP-Jamaat--in the country. AL Presidium Members Dr Abdur Razzak, Jahangir Kabir Nanak, Mofazzal Hossain Chowdhry Maya, Advocate Kamrul Islam, Joint General Secretaries Dr Dipu Moni, AFM Bahauddin Nasim and Organising Secretary BM Mozammel Hoque, among others, were present at the rally. Read more: AL's V-Day vow: To build fully-developed, Smart Bangladesh by 2041 Earlier, leaders and activists with banners, festoons, and party flags from several parts of the capital started gathering at the programme venue at 1pm. Starting the rally from the Engineers’ Institution ended at Bangabandhu Bhaban in Dhandmondi after parading several roads of the city.

Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader today said that it is impossible for BNP to come to power by “burning people to death”. “It is not possible to come to power or earn the trust of people by burning them to death. BNP has been known for its terrorist activities or looting,” he said. Quader, also Road Transport and Bridges Minister, came up with the remark while addressing the Chuadanga district Awami League Council at the town football ground in the district town. Read more: Resignation of BNP MPs is a wrong step: Obaidul Quader Quarter-final with BNP is over, now semi-final will be held, and the final game will be held during the national election, said Quader. Referring to the forex reserve issue, the Awami League leader said Tarique Rahman remained absconding after looting money from the country and sending it abroad. “How can they talk about the forex reserves? The country has sufficient reserves,” he assured. Read more: BNP 'half-defeated' through holding rally at Golapbagh: Obaidul Quader After seven years, the triennial conference of Chuadanga district Awami League is being held today (Monday) at the town football ground of the district with more than 50,000 people joining it. Awami League presidium member Kazi Zafar Ullah announced the opening of the council around 11 am while Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader was present as chief guest joining the event virtually.

Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader on Friday urged US Ambassador to Bangladesh Peter Haas not to harm the friendship with Bangladesh by making unwanted comments about Bangladesh elections and the rule of law. He said this at the first preparatory meeting of the 22nd National Council at the political office of the party president in Dhanmondi in the morning. Read more: US concerned about reports of intimidation, political violence in Dhaka “Do not make unwanted comments or interfere in any issue of Bangladesh. Election fraud is not only happening in Bangladesh, but also in the United States. There is still another party complaining about election rigging in the US,” said Quader. He said mass shootings are common in the US. “Every day two, three or five people are killed in mass shootings. But you are talking about the human rights of Bangladesh.”  “Sheikh Hasina will not listen to anybody's orders. She does not fear anyone except Allah.” "We have bitter experiences with the US. We saw their role in 1971 and 1975. Despite all these incidents, we want a good relationship with the US.” Read more: US Embassy issues alert for its citizens in Bangladesh He also said no one will benefit from this type of comment. These will only be a barrier to good relations. Bangladesh wants to maintain friendship with the US, he added. On Thursday, the US Embassy in Dhaka expressed its concern over reports of intimidation and political violence in Dhaka and called on everyone to respect the rule of law. "We are concerned about reports of intimidation and political violence in Dhaka and call on everyone to respect the rule of law and to refrain from violence, harassment, and intimidation,"  Haas said in a message through the verified Facebook page of the Embassy on Thursday. He said they encourage government authorities to investigate these reports of violence and to protect the fundamental freedoms of expression, association, and peaceful assembly.