Information and Broadcasting Adviser Dr Zahed Ur Rahman on Tuesday called the Awami League a "mafia gang" not a political party also linking the remark to a recent attack on actress Azmeri Haque Badhan.
Speaking to reporters at the Secretariat during a briefing on government activities, Zahed said he had seen footage of the assault on Badhan, noting that the attackers themselves filmed and shared the video. He confirmed legal action against those involved was already underway also adding, "We will not let this go."
Asked about the Awami League's political status, Zahed said the party did not deserve the label. "I do not consider the Awami League a political party. It is a mafia gang" he said and arguing that genuine remorse or intent to return to politics would have prevented such violence.
He described the attack on Badhan as in a sense a mark of honour, telling her that being targeted by the party confirmed she was on the right path. Referring to her earlier Facebook Live remarks identifying herself as a "July fighter," Zahed affirmed he shared that identity and said others holding the same position might face similar attacks. "But we don't care" he said.
