NCP MP responds to BNP MP Akhtaruzzaman’s “selling the spirit of July” remark

JS Reporter:

National Citizen Party (NCP) MP Hasnat Abdullah on Thursday declared in parliament that he would resign if any investigation proves his involvement in corruption.

While giving a personal explanation in the House this afternoon, Hasnat responded to remarks made earlier by BNP MP Akhtaruzzaman, who accused individuals of betraying the ideals of the July Uprising and claimed that some who once rode rickshaws now drive Prado after “selling the spirit of July.”

Hasnat said the remarks were directed at him and others. “The DGFI, NSI, police and military are under your control. I urge you, as someone holding such a responsible position, not to make unsubstantiated allegations. If an investigation proves that I was involved in even one taka of corruption or any wrongdoing, I will resign from parliament,” he said.

Responding to parts of BNP MP Sayeed Al Noman’s speech, he clarified that he had never sought money from him; rather, he sought allocation for his constituency.

Earlier, during the discussion on the proposed budget, Hasnat sought the speaker’s protection, saying opposition MPs feared that criticising the government or its ministers could lead to budget cuts in their constituencies.

Immediately after Hasnat’s speech, Noman remarked that Hasnat should not seek “money” but rather “allocation” for his constituency.