Those Talking About “Minus Four” Are Allies of Autocracy: Press Secretary

Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam has said that Khaleda Zia has emerged as a national leader. He stated that she now stands above party lines and is leading people across the country. “We pray for her recovery. The idea of ‘Minus Four’ is a nonsensical conspiracy. Those who are talking about Minus Four are allies of autocracy. There is no such thing as Minus Four,” he said.

Referring to Sheikh Hasina, he added, “The one who has been ‘minus-ed’ is the one removed through slaughter. Sheikh Hasina, Asaduzzaman Kamal and all others involved in killings — we are determined to bring them back. Everyone with blood on their hands will be brought back to Bangladesh. This is our responsibility to the martyrs. If we fail, the next government will accomplish it.”

Shafiqul Alam further said that the government has placed no restrictions on Tarique Rahman’s return to the country. “His return is entirely his own decision,” he noted.

He made the remarks on Friday, 5 December at 11 a.m., while speaking to reporters after inaugurating an inter-college football tournament at Magura Government High School ground.

Speaking on the upcoming national election, he said, “The election will be held by 15 February — no force can stop it. A free and fair election will take place with participation from all parties.”

Answering another question, he described the Jatiya Party as a “dangerous ally of autocracy” and said that the Awami League committed its misdeeds with their support. “Except for the banned parties, all others will participate in the election. The Jatiya Party is not banned. If they wish to contest, that is their decision.”

Teams from nine colleges in the district are participating in the tournament. Among others present were Magura Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Abdul Kader, District Sports Officer BM Sajin Israt, and several officials.