Mirza Fakhrul's statement about Western countries' support to BNP's movement for ousting the ruling government is false, Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader said on Monday (16 October).

"Fakhrul said support from western countries encouraged the BNP to carry out its ongoing movement. He will tell more lies.Those who came to Bangladesh from western countries and spoke to us, they said it at home and abroad that they do not support any political party in Bangladesh. America said this, so has Europe," Quader said while addressing a Jubo League youth rally in front of Awami League's central office on Bangabandhu Avenue.

"Where does Fakhrul find such unrealistic things to speak of? The game is on. We will not sit back. The game will be tougher than last December. Now, the quarter finals are going on. Next month, the semi-finals. Then, the final game will be held in January," he added.

During the rally organised to protest against BNP-Jamaat killings, anti-national conspiracies, terrorism and anarchy, the road transport and bridges minister also said the Awami League   will not give any concession to the BNP's plans for a citywide blockade in the name of procession on 18 October.

He further warned that if the capital is blocked in the name of protest rally, the BNP's condition would be worse than "Shapla Chattar". 

Quader said, "The red card has been issued. [There will be] Direct action from Awami League, Jubo League, Swechasebak League, Sramik League. We are ready. We [too] will occupy Dhaka on 18 October [to counter BNP's blockade]. If Dhaka is blocked, the BNP will also be blocked."

"Now, they [BNP men] have snuck into Dhaka. They won't find a way to escape. Remember what happened in Shapla Chattar? On the final night, everyone ran away. I don't want to say this, [but] BNP will have a more tragic end. Sheikh Hasina does not bow down."

Obaidul Quader said, "We are getting courage from the support of the people. As long as the people are with us, we have nothing to fear. We stand for justice and principles."

Jubo League Chairman Sheikh Fazle Shams Parash presided over the rally, which was moderated by the party's General Secretary Mainul Hossain Khan Nikhil.

Awami League (AL) Presidium Member Jahangir Kabir Nanak, and organising secretary Mirza Azam addressed the rally.