Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury said only the BNP can pull Bangladesh out of the “deep hole” he said was created by past governments. Speaking on Tuesday, September 1, at a pre-rally gathering in Chattogram marking the BNP’s 48th founding anniversary, he said the party, led by Tarique Rahman, could resolve the country’s problems.

Khasru accused what he called a fascist government and an interim government of damaging the country through looting and inaction. He said recovery would take time, urged party activists not to worry, and said the BNP would remain active both in government and, if needed, on the streets. He also said the party viewed economic difficulties as problems affecting the public rather than any specific group.

He said steps had already been taken and further measures would be introduced in the public interest. Calling for patience and cooperation with the government, he asked people to identify drug dealers, extortionists and illegal occupiers and hand them to police. State Minister Mir Mohammad Helal Uddin said a long march involving 1,000 vehicles was planned for September 5.