Khulna city BNP bigwig wants PM to form neutral convening body

The tenure of the present city BNP committee has already expired, he said.

Addressing a crowded press conference yesterday morning, Shacchu strongly refuted the allegation that six listed criminals had joined a four-party alliance rally and procession last Friday. "They are dedicated workers who have contributed to all democratic and pro-people movements. They have been branded as criminals with the ulterior motive of implicating them in false cases," Shacchu said.

"One cannot be termed a criminal if he is implicated in a false case," Shacchu said referring to many false cases lodged against national leaders including Prime Minister Khaleda Zia.

Criticising the outgoing secretary of the city BNP, Nazrul Islam Manju, Shacchu said most of the leaders and workers of the party were extremely frustrated with Manju's performance.

"He (Manju) started conspiring against dedicated workers and leaders of the party branding them as criminals to foil the next council of the city committee. Fearing his ouster from the leadership in the next council meeting, Nazrul Islam

Manju has threatened to resign from the party," Shacchu claimed.

Shacchu said Nazrul Islam Manju himself was involved in many deals with criminals as partners.

He further alleged in his written statement that Manju is maintaining cadres including his younger brother Badal for grabbing fisheries projects, collecting tolls from Rupsha bus stand and smugglers and drug traders.