Opposition leader and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman criticized the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), saying its name once stood for nationalism but now represents extortion. He made the remarks on Saturday in Rajshahi while addressing a divisional rally organized by the 11-party alliance led by Jamaat. The event was chaired by Rafiqul Islam Khan and attended by leaders and activists from various political groups, including the NCP.

During his speech, Dr. Rahman thanked the government for inaugurating the Padma Barrage and urged authorities to implement the Teesta Master Plan without fear or hesitation. He called for building social unity against corruption and extortion, urging citizens to hand over wrongdoers to the police. He reiterated that Jamaat must take the lead in combating these issues.

Dr. Rahman arrived in Rajshahi around 8 a.m. to attend the rally as the chief guest, where he emphasized moral and social responsibility in political conduct.