State Minister for Liberation War Affairs Ishraque Hossain has warned that any attempt to topple the government will be met with a response on the streets. He said, “If the opposition threatens to overthrow us, we will bring about your downfall from the opposition benches, Insha’Allah.”
He made the remarks on Wednesday (April 29) during the 24th sitting of the first session of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad while participating in the discussion on the motion of thanks on the President’s address. Deputy Speaker Barrister Kaiser Kamal presided over the session at that time.
Highlighting the legitimacy of the current government, Ishraque Hossain said, “This government did not come to power through the elections of 2008, 2014, 2018, or 2024 alone. We are here with a direct mandate from the people. If anyone thinks they can bring down the government through threats or intimidation, I would like to say to the Leader of the House, "Just give the order." As we have done in the past under your direction by taking to the streets to establish voting rights and overthrow ‘killer Hasina,’ we will once again take to the streets.”
The state minister added that opposition members deliver constructive speeches in parliament, which they appreciate. However, he criticized their remarks both inside and outside parliament, saying they are spreading “toxic rhetoric” that is affecting educational institutions, heating campuses, and leading to clashes among student groups.
He further said that although a functional committee on the energy crisis was formed last Thursday and the opposition leader made positive remarks, opposition leaders later incited the public during the parliamentary recess. He also noted that threats had been made to remove the government within 17 days.
Ishraque Hossain emphasized, “We do not want divisive politics; we want peaceful politics. To honor those who were martyred in the 2024 movement, we must show mutual respect. If an unstable environment is created, it will only benefit the associates of fugitive fascist forces. If they return, have you considered what will happen to the protesters?”
