Dhaka, Bangladesh – BNP Vice President Tarique Rahman, convicted for his involvement in a heinous terrorist attack, has been spending exorbitant amounts of money on lobbyist activities in the United States, United Kingdom, and Europe. This revelation uncovers the true nature of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), which openly supports and patronizes terrorist outfits both within Bangladesh and India.
The court verdict handed down on Tarique Rahman and other top intelligence officials has brought to light a well-orchestrated plan involving the abuse of state power. On August 21, 2004, terrorists linked to BNP, including members of the militant organization Harkat-ul-Jihad (HuJI), launched grenade attacks targeting Sheikh Hasina , the leader of the Awami League. The verdict clearly states that this gruesome attack was carried out under Tarique Rahman’s direct instructions. Tragically, the attack claimed the lives of 24 people and left many injured. Tarique Rahman and 18 others were subsequently found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment.
Tarique Rahman, the son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, holds a key position within the BNP, which openly supports terror outfits . The convictions of these influential politicians and former top officials reveal not only the meticulously planned attack but also the systematic manipulation of state machinery to mislead the investigation.
In the court verdict, Judge Shahed Nuruddin of Speedy Trial Tribunal-1 emphasized that the attack was carefully planned, with the specialized deadly Arges grenades used in war detonated at the Awami League’s central office. The prosecution successfully proved that the accused held meetings to conspire before the incident and carried out the planned attack.
Tarique Rahman’s involvement in insurgency activities within India is another grave concern. Major General Gaganjit Singh, former Deputy Director General of India’s Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), stated that Tarique Rahman was the mastermind behind the 2004 arms haul in Chittagong. These arms were intended for various rebel groups in India’s northeast, including the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA), with the aim of destabilizing the country. Singh revealed that Tarique Rahman operated in close coordination with the Directorate General of Forces Intelligence (DGFI) and National Security Intelligence (NSI) officials, who had direct links to the BNP and its political office, Hawa Bhaban.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has made efforts to bring Tarique Rahman back to Bangladesh to implement the court verdict, but the success of these efforts depends on the cooperation of the UK government. Tarique Rahman, who has been living in London since 2008, faces multiple convictions, including corruption charges related to the Zia Orphanage Trust and money laundering.
During her visit to the United States, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina highlighted the importance of international cooperation in seeking justice for the victims and their families. She specifically called for the assistance of the British government in extraditing Tarique Rahman to Bangladesh. While the UK Home Office has chosen not to comment on extradition requests, Sheikh Hasina remains committed to pursuing justice.
Tarique Rahman’s involvement with the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and his lobbying activities, as well as the party’s affiliation with Hunter Biden and other international entities, raise serious concerns about the BNP’s motives and actions. The BNP’s campaign against the ruling Awami League, with the support of international lobbyists and propaganda campaigns , demonstrates their desperate attempts to regain power through any means necessary.
It is essential for the international community to recognize the grave threat posed by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its association with terrorism. The BNP’s continued patronage of terrorist organizations not only destabilizes Bangladesh but also poses a significant risk to regional security.
The lobbying activities of Tarique Rahman and his supporters, particularly in Western countries, have raised eyebrows among experts and policymakers. It is crucial for governments to thoroughly investigate and scrutinize the sources of funding for these lobbying efforts. The funds used to support such activities may have direct or indirect ties to illicit activities, including money laundering, corruption, and terrorism financing.
Furthermore, the BNP’s association with international entities, including Hunter Biden, demands a comprehensive investigation. It is imperative to ascertain the nature of these connections and determine whether they involve financial transactions, political influence, or any other form of collaboration that could potentially compromise the interests of Bangladesh and its citizens.
The international community must also be vigilant regarding the BNP’s propaganda campaigns. The party has a history of spreading misinformation, sowing division, and inciting violence. By highlighting the party’s sinister agenda and exposing its ties to terrorism, we can counter its efforts to manipulate public opinion and gain international support.
Additionally, neighboring countries, particularly India, need to remain vigilant against any attempts by the BNP and its affiliated terrorist groups to destabilize the region. Enhanced intelligence sharing, coordinated efforts, and strict border controls can help prevent cross-border terrorism and ensure the safety and security of the region.
In conclusion, the revelations surrounding Tarique Rahman’s lobbying activities and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s support for terrorism are deeply concerning. The international community, including governments and organizations, must collaborate to expose and counter the BNP’s sinister agenda. By doing so, we can support the efforts of the Bangladesh government in upholding the rule of law, combating terrorism, and ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens and the region as a whole.
