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BARISHAL: Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan has warned that anyone who abuses power against the public is an enemy of the government, the party, Tarique Rahman and Khaleda Zia.
He made the remarks on Tuesday while addressing a tree plantation programme organised by the upazila unit of the Jatiyatabadi Krishak Dal beside the Kutubpur Self-Reliance Canal in Nalchira Union of Gournadi upazila, Barishal.
“The only real source of power is the people,” the minister said. “Those who try to dominate or intimidate the public are enemies of our government, our party, Tarique Rahman and Khaleda Zia.”
Referring to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Swapan said even a leader with immense state power had ultimately been forced to flee. He also criticised politicians who underestimate or insult ordinary people, saying such arrogance only harms both the party and the nation.
“When political leaders and activists treat the people with contempt or consider themselves above them, they become enemies of the party and the people,” he said. “I warned against such behaviour in the past, and I am warning again today.”
The minister said that when the BNP is in power, the leadership does not tolerate the misuse of authority at the highest levels. However, he cautioned that misconduct by grassroots leaders and activists ultimately damages the party’s reputation.
He urged party leaders to remain vigilant against irresponsible members and ensure that no one is allowed to misuse the party’s name or engage in wrongdoing.
“We should treat everyone with courtesy and respect, but keep a close watch on those who may become involved in criminal activities,” he said. “Anyone who commits an offence must be brought under the law immediately. No one should be protected because of their party affiliation.”
The meeting was chaired by Upazila Krishak Dal President Abul Kalam Azad.
Among others present were Barishal North District BNP Member Secretary Mizanur Rahman Khan Mukul, Upazila BNP Convener Syed Sarwar Alam Biplob, former Convener Alhaj Abul Hossain Mia, Member Secretary Sharif Zahir Sajjad Hannan, Senior Joint Convener Badiuzzaman Mintu, District BNP member Rafiqul Islam Kajal, Municipal BNP Convener Md Zakir Hossain Sharif, Acting Member Secretary Sharif Shafiqul Rahman Swapan, Senior Joint Convener Kamruzzaman Khokon, and Krishak Dal North District Member Secretary VP Md Selim Hossain.
