BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Friday strongly condemned and protested the disrespectful behaviour of “fascists” on law adviser of the interim government Asif Nazrul on foreign land, saying that this audacious act is a strong attack on the dignity of Bangladesh and its people.

“Such unethical behavior with an adviser of the government of the country on foreign soil is not only unexpected but also a huge blow to the dignity of the country and people. This manifestation of the ferocious face of fascism is still coming out in many places at home and abroad,” he said in a statement.

Asif Nazrul faced rude behaviour from some Awami League activists in front of the Geneva Airport in Switzerland on his way to France on Thursday.

The BNP leader said, “Sheikh Hasina’s international conspiracies continue to complicate the political landscape in Bangladesh. Her supporters abroad are allegedly engaged in organised efforts to undermine democratic voices and stoke tension within the country.”

Tarique Rahman said Awami League activists overseas have a historic record of assaulting Bangladeshi advocates and activities of democracy and human rights, perhaps as an extension of their autocratic rule and atrocities over the last 16 years, including human rights violations, erosion of freedom of expression and rule of law, and misappropriation of public resources.

For many, the growing influence of these overseas Awami League affiliates is a cause for concern, said Tarique Rahman.

“I condemn this disrespect and incivility towards Dr Asif Nazrul as emblematic of the Awami League’s conspiracy to complicate our democratic transition and assault democratic norms,” he said.

He said scare tactics and threats from them will not be tolerated by the public in silence any longer. Pro-democracy advocates across the world are calling for foreign authorities to investigate their crimes and atrocities, said the BNP leader.