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Bangladesh Nationalist Party secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said on Tuesday that those who were responsible for mass killings and involved in criminal acts during Awami League’s rule would never be accepted by the BNP.

He came up with the remarks while distributing winter clothing to underprivileged individuals at the Thakurgaon Press Club.

Responding to questions, he said, ‘There are clear party directives, those involved in mass killing will not be allowed into the BNP.’

Asked about reports of Awami League leaders joining BNP in different districts, Fakhrul said, ‘I am not aware of such developments, but our leaders and activists have been given clear instructions that those involved in mass killings, violence, and corruption will not be allowed into the BNP under any circumstances.’

Addressing the nation’s challenges of corruption and authoritarianism, the BNP leader said that the solution lay in establishing democracy and restoring governance to the people.

He said that a parliament, consisting of elected representatives based on the people’s opinions, could be the only institution to establish democracy.

‘The country must be run through a parliament elected by the people. I see no other way,’ he added.

BNP acting chairperson Tarique Rahman and its secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, meanwhile, issued separate messages extending their greetings to the Christian community on the occasion of Happy Christmas Day to be celebrated today, commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ.

In his message, Tarique Rahman said, ‘I extend my heartfelt greetings and congratulations to all Christians in Bangladesh and the world. I wish them happiness, peace, and prosperity.’

‘As human beings, it is our duty to work for the welfare of the country, society, and people from our respective positions,’ he said.

He also said, ‘It is very important for all of us to commit ourselves to establishing peace and stability in society by abandoning hatred and violence and preventing all kinds of injustice and cruelty.’