Quader calls KNF's armed activities ‘isolated’

Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader has called the armed activities of the Kuki-Chin National Front (KNF) in the hills “isolated incidents” but the government has taken a very cautious and firm stance.

"These are isolated incidents. The home minister has visited the area. A joint operation is going on,” he said at a press conference at the Awami League's political office in Dhanmondi on Sunday afternoon.

On Tuesday night, the members of the armed group attacked the Ruma Upazila Parishad office, tried to rob Sonali Bank's Ruma Branch in Bandarban, snatched arms and abducted its manager Nizam Uddin. The next day, the KNF members robbed two banks at Thanchi Bazar and opened fire at the police station. 

Following the Ruma bank heist, security forces launched a joint operation while the peace talks with KNF were put on hold for an indefinite period.

BNP seeks issues to cover failures

Regarding BNP’s criticism of the recent KNF activities, Quader, also the road transport and bridges minister, said: "The BNP is seeking issues to cover its failures. The party is looking for new issues to discuss after its criticism failed on various issues, including the Myanmar crisis; now, the Kuki-chin issue has emerged. These isolated incidents will not affect the overall peace in the hills.

"The BNP lacks the capability to agitate. They have lost all their strength. Their leaders and activists are disappointed with their leadership, particularly with Tarique. Their leader is not in the country; will there be a remote-controlled movement? That is not possible! Movements must be made on the streets. The public will not respond to a call from remote control."

BNP to blame for Khaleda Zia's condition

The Awami League general secretary said: "The BNP is responsible for the current condition of their Chairperson Khaleda Zia. Has Mirza Fakhrul agitated for her release? He could not even organize a procession of 500 people. 

“They have repeatedly delayed in the legal battle, ignoring court proceedings. If this had not happened, the issue would have been settled long ago. BNP has failed in its movements and legal battles for Begum Zia. Now all they have are tears, cries, and sighs."

‘No influence from MPs and ministers’

Regarding nominating relatives in the upcoming upazila elections, Quader said: "Candidacy has been opened. Being open to elections means many may wish to contest in an open environment. Our clear statement is that MPs and ministers will not exert any influence anywhere. The administration will remain impartial. Instructions have been given to the administration that no interference should succeed. Organizational measures will be taken if anyone disobeys party directives after candidacy is finalized."

Allegations against Dr Abdur Razzak

Regarding complaints against Awami League Presidium Member and former agriculture minister Dr Abdur Razzaque over nominating relatives in the upazila polls, Quader said the party is investigating the matter. 

“Whoever disobeys the party directive will face consequences, no matter who they are," he added.

AL’s early council

Rejecting the possibility of holding the party’s national council early, Quader said: "The Awami League will hold a conference in time, not early."