BNP is not the only party with extortionists, but it has been deliberately targeted with the “extortionist” label and subjected to propaganda, according to Rumin Farhana, BNP’s Co-Secretary for International Affairs. Speaking on a recent talk show on a private television channel, she highlighted that despite BNP taking a firm stance against extortionists, the party continues to face smear campaigns.
Rumin Farhana emphasised BNP’s proactive measures against extortion: “Let me highlight a change. For 53 long years, we have seen a culture of denial, but we never denied it; we acknowledged it. I am a dedicated BNP member, and haven’t I spoken on air about extortion? The 4,500 members expelled—we did not condone their behaviour. Yet, some of those expelled leaders were welcomed by Jamaat with floral garlands, as reported by the media.”
She contrasted BNP’s approach with Jamaat’s disciplinary measures:
- BNP expulsions: 4,500 members
- Jamaat expulsions: over 650 members
“There is a significant difference between these figures. Why? Because BNP is a large, accommodative party. Many assume that BNP will come to power if elections are held; people want to align with us. Jamaat, on the other hand, seeks rule by honest individuals. How could over 650 of their members be expelled for extortion?”
Rumin Farhana criticised Jamaat’s approach to justice and its claimed adherence to Sharia law: “Sharia law does not permit making allegations against unknown individuals. Yet, this happens regularly. There are countless examples of such misapplied judgements.”
She further stated that Jamaat never acknowledges extortion within its ranks:
“While we expelled 4,000 members, they expelled 600. They claim to seek governance by honest individuals. So where did these 600 extortionists come from? Jamaat never admits that extortion exists within their party, and they never will.”
Summary Table: Extortion-Related Expulsions
| Party | Expelled Members | Comments |
| BNP | 4,500 | Expelled for extortion; some later welcomed by Jamaat with floral garlands |
| Jamaat | 650+ | Claims to pursue governance by honest leaders; does not acknowledge extortion internally |
Rumin Farhana’s statements underscore BNP’s proactive measures against extortion and highlight what she describes as selective targeting and propaganda against her party, contrasting it with Jamaat’s denial and internal contradictions regarding similar issues.
