BNP Standing Committee member and Dhaka-8 candidate Mirza Abbas has alleged that National Citizens Party leader Nasiruddin Patwari made accusations against the BNP only to gain public sympathy and cheap popularity. Abbas made the remarks on Tuesday while campaigning for the BNP’s ‘sheaf of paddy’ symbol in Malibagh Gulbag, Dhaka, following Patwari’s claim of being attacked during a public outreach event.

During his campaign speech, Abbas dismissed the allegations as politically motivated and said he would not fall into his opponents’ traps. He criticized rival candidates for spreading falsehoods and questioned their contributions to the constituency. Abbas also referred to his long political career since 1991, asserting his consistent presence in elections and movements.

The former minister further accused his rivals of labeling BNP members as extortionists to influence the election. He warned that those threatening to show a “red card” would instead face rejection from voters on February 12, adding that attempts were underway to create unrest in the country.