Dhaka, Dec 8 (UNB) - BNP senior joint secretary general Tarique Rahman, now undergoing medical treatment in the UK, has said he is yet to decide whether to hold the party leadership because of his health condition.

“I’ve not yet taken any decision about party politics. It depends on my physical fitness. Recovering from illness is the top priority for me and my family right now,” he said in a recorded video statement at the inaugural session of the party’s fifth national council Tuesday afternoon.

Tarique, who was elected the party’s senior vice chairman, said there are senior leaders in the party who would guide it towards its desired goal.

Tarique recalled the persecution perpetrated by the past military-backed caretaker government on him and informed the audience that they (army-backed CG) had even tried to kill him. “But, I survived by the grace of the Almighty, due to good deeds and doa of my parents as well as blessings of people.”

“I never indulged in any act against the interest of the motherland, not even in my subconscious mind. But why did I have to face the ordeals without committing any offence,” Tarique, the eldest son of Zia, posed the question in an emotion-choked voice.

He said the perilous condition in which the country plunged into has not recovered yet. “Had it been a normal situation I could have joined you in this august council. My fitness and ability have been robbed of and I have been deprived of the opportunity (to attend it),” he lamented.

He, however, expressed optimism that he would come back among people with a good health.