BNP leader Ishraque Hossain announced on Monday that he had sought to step down as State Minister for Liberation War Affairs, saying he wanted to focus on eliminating drugs and addressing other problems in the Dhaka-6 constituency and adjoining areas.
Hossain began a press conference at the National Press Club after 2pm, where he made the announcement.
“I have voluntarily sought release from my responsibilities as State Minister for Liberation War Affairs from today,” Hossain said. “I want to spend all my time working on eliminating drugs and other problems in the Dhaka-6 constituency and neighbouring areas. The Prime Minister has agreed.”
Hossain said he had told the Prime Minister: “Honourable Prime Minister, I want to resign. No one should be embarrassed because of me.”
The BNP leader said discussion had continued for the past two to three days over an unspecified matter, with domestic and foreign media reports containing “some truth” as well as exaggeration.
“Fictional stories have been created. I have been targeted and demeaned. The party has also been embarrassed,” he said.
Earlier on Monday morning, Hossain announced on Facebook that he would make a final declaration of his resignation from the post of state minister at 2pm at the National Press Club and explain the matter before journalists.
The announcement came amid widespread criticism over Hossain displaying a personal weapon during an anti-drug operation in his constituency. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman had reportedly instructed him to resign from the cabinet, although Hossain later said the report was incorrect.
Hossain arrived at the National Press Club at 2pm with a large number of leaders and activists, causing disorder on the premises. Before the press conference began, “mobile journalists” were asked to leave, triggering further commotion. The press conference eventually began in the presence of all journalists.