BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Monday alleged that the country’s overall law and order situation has yet to see any improvement, though he expressed hope that the problems would be resolved soon.

Speaking to journalists during a media interaction in Thakurgaon, Mirza Fakhrul said the government has failed to recover illegal weapons ahead of the election, calling it a clear sign of administrative failure.

“Despite the election approaching, the government has not been able to recover any illegal arms. This reflects its failure, and the law and order situation has not improved either,” he said. “However, BNP remains hopeful that a solution will be found very soon.”

The BNP leader also commented on issues related to the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), Bangladesh’s matches in the T20 World Cup, and cricketer Mustafizur Rahman. He said cricket is closely linked with international politics and the country’s dignity.

“Cricket involves international politics and the honour of our country. Insulting one of our cricketers is equivalent to insulting the nation,” he said.

Praising the cricket board’s stance, Mirza Fakhrul said BNP supports BCB’s decision on the matter, adding that minor issues should be resolved through discussion.

Highlighting BNP’s role in shaping the country’s political landscape, he said the party has played the most significant role in rebuilding Bangladesh’s political structure.

“BNP is a tested political party. From restoring multi-party democracy from one-party rule to reforms, ensuring press freedom and establishing the independence of the judiciary—BNP has done all these in the past,” he said.

He also said that if BNP comes to power, it will work to resolve issues related to fair water-sharing of international and common rivers, including the Teesta.

“If BNP forms the government, we will ensure Bangladesh’s rightful share of water of the Teesta, Padma and other common rivers through discussions with India,” he said. “We want good relations with India based on mutual respect, and if we maintain such relations, India’s hostile attitude will also diminish.”

Criticising political rhetoric from abroad, Mirza Fakhrul said, “Those who make big statements from abroad talk about fascism as a factor. For us, it is not a theory. We know how to drive fascists away, how to resist them, and even how to endure repression.”

Regarding the postponed tour of BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman to the northern region, he said the visit would take place at a later time.

“North Bengal is his ancestral land. He will definitely visit the region in due course,” Mirza Fakhrul added.