Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has alleged that both regional and global powers are conspiring to take control of Bangladesh’s remaining coal and gas resources.
Rizvi made the remarks on Friday while inaugurating a photo exhibition highlighting the political life and struggles of former Prime Minister and late BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. The exhibition was held at Justice Shahabuddin Park in Gulshan, a diplomatic and residential area of the capital.
The event was organised by the Bogra Media and Cultural Forum, Dhaka.
Addressing party leaders and supporters, Rizvi claimed that Bangladesh’s energy sector has been subjected to decisions that undermine national interests. He cited a power plant project originating from Jharkhand, India, saying it was cancelled by India’s Ministry of Planning but later implemented in Rampal, Bangladesh.
According to Rizvi, such projects would not have been possible during Begum Khaleda Zia’s tenure as prime minister. He alleged that her opposition to what he described as “anti-national projects” contributed to her imprisonment.
Rizvi also criticised the current handling of coal-based power generation, alleging that environmental and public health concerns were being ignored. He warned that decisions taken without transparency could have long-term consequences for the country.
The remarks come amid broader political debate in Bangladesh over energy security, foreign investment, and the environmental impact of large-scale power projects.