Dhaka: BNP senior leader Moudud Ahmed on Tuesday said people will force BNP to change the course of its peaceful movement if its chairperson Khaleda Zia’s stay in jail lingers, reports the UNB.

‘The time will come when people won’t want us to carry out a peaceful movement, and then we’ll be with people,’ he said.

Speaking at a discussion, the BNP leader also said their party will continue its legal battle to have their chairperson released from jail alongside the movement. ‘The Supreme Court is the country’s highest court, and we must obey its verdict, no matter whether we like it or not. So, we must carry out our legal battle.’

Greater Noakhali Jatiyatabadi Jubo Forum arranged the programme at the Jatiya Press Club, demanding the release of Khaleda and Swechchhasebak Dal president Shafiul Bari Babu.

Moudud, a BNP standing committee member, hoped that the country’s people will restore democracy and their rights through their united efforts.

He called upon the people of all walks of life to get united under the leadership of Khaleda for the sake of the country and democracy.

About Bangladesh’s graduation to a developing country, the BNP leader said it is the achievement of common people, not only any single government. ‘The government has no credit for the country’s graduation to a developing country. It’s a victory for people’s continued efforts and an achievement of common people.’

Mentioning that all governments have made contributions to the country’s advancement, he said the country’s farmers, RMG workers and expatriates played the major role. ‘That’s why we greet the country’s people for this achievement.’

Moudud deplored that unabated corruption and plundering of public money are affecting the country’s advancement. ‘The offenders are not getting arrested and punished.’