DHAKA: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Saturday claimed that late president Ziaur Rahman had killed scores of aides for capturing state power illegally and termed his party, BNP illegal.

“Zia killed a scores of aides and founded party illegally,” she said at a programme at her official residence Ganobhaban in the evening.

The premier, also chief of the ruling Awami League, came up with the remark at a time when BNP Senior Vice Chairman Tarique Rahman are making controversial comments about the history of the country and Bangabandhu.

She said BNP-Jamaat alliance does not believe in the independence of the country otherwise they would not have talked about independence in such a disparaging tone.

They also criticized the constitution that was highly praised across the world.

Mentioning that the party that was formed by the person who seized power illegally is also illegal, Prime Minister said, “It is our bad luck that we are learning history from that illegal party.”

They are trying to denigrate those who have brought independence by fighting, she added.

Speaking at a function in London where he has been staying for more than five years, Tarique on March 8 said Sheikh Mujibur Rahman became the prime minister of country in 1972 illegally.

BNP-Jamaat alliance does not believe in the independence and constitution of the country, she said adding that is why there are making rubbish statements about the constitution and the country’s history.

Newly elected chairman, vice-chairmen and local leaders of Tungipara upazila met with the premier at her residence.

About the just concluded upazila elections, the prime minister said candidates from all parties were elected as the polls were held in a free, fair and credible manner.

BDST: 1020 HRS APR 12, 2014