Dhaka, June 26 -- Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has instructed BNP leaders and activists not to organise any showdown or large gathering to welcome him on his return to the country Friday night following his official visits to Malaysia and China.

The directive was conveyed to party leaders and activists through BNP Senior Joint Secretary General and Political Adviser to the Prime Minister Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, BNP Media Cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan said.

According to him, only senior party leaders, senior ministers and high-ranking government officials will be present at the airport to receive the Prime Minister.

Party sources said leaders and activists have been requested to refrain from gathering at the airport or arranging any show of...