Dhaka, July 14 -- Prime Minister and BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Monday urged party leaders and activists to remain united as they had over the past 17 years, warning that internal division will only benefit "fascist forces" and infiltrators ahead of the upcoming local government elections.

Addressing an organisational meeting of local BNP leaders and activists at the Barishal Shilpakala Academy, he said differences of opinion are natural but should never be allowed to weaken the party and destroy the unity.

"You remained united during the last 17 years and brought the party to victory in the parliamentary election. You must maintain that same unity in the local government elections. If we remain united, no fascist force or infiltrat...