BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed has said that the attack on Sharif Osman Hadi is an attack on Bangladesh.

He emphasised that the assault, which occurred the day after the schedule for the 13th National Parliament Election was announced, is not an isolated incident.

He made these remark after a meeting with the Chief Adviser at the State Guest House Jamuna.Salahuddin said the attack appeared professional and planned, targeting a prospective parliamentary candidate.

“This is, in fact, an attack on Bangladesh,” he said, stressing the importance of keeping the anti-fascist national unity strong and intact.

He also noted that while various political debates will take place during the upcoming election, they should not undermine national unity or compromise the spirit and public aspirations of the July Uprising.

Salahuddin also asserted that individuals who seek to obstruct Bangladesh’s democratic transition, both inside and outside the country, are behind such attacks. “However, these acts will not hinder the democratic process in Bangladesh,” he added.

Highlighting efforts to ensure a credible and neutral election, he said all democratic parties are working together to conduct a globally recognised vote.

He observed that political culture has evolved in line with public expectations and the aspirations of the mass uprising.

In response to the attack, Inqilab Moncho has called for a National Resistance Rally on Saturday and Sunday, which BNP has welcomed.

Regarding the safety of political leaders, Salahuddin urged the government to ensure protection while maintaining unity among parties to confront terrorism effectively.

He also criticised the lack of proper investigation into a deadly attack on a prospective BNP candidate in Chittagong-8 on November 5, stating that such incidents could have been prevented with prompt action.

“The Ministry of Home Affairs has been urged to act decisively against terrorism and the Chief Adviser has been requested to take necessary measures. There is also a commitment to issue a joint statement and work unitedly,” Salahuddin said.