"Political parties in our country as well as other countries are run on donation of well wishers. Devoted activists of Awami League bear the expenses for running the party, which can by no means be termed extortion," the veteran politician said.

Based on the 'sayings' of a remanded Abdul Awal Mintoo, newspapers and the electronic media published 'false and baseless' reports on Sheikh Hasina, he said.

Besides, newspapers published statements reportedly made by AL General Secretary Abdul Jalil and Presidium Member Sheikh Selim.

But the media have no scope to know one's statement during remand as strict secrecy is maintained there, he said, adding that even the nation could not know the JMB leaders' confessions during the interrogation.

He urged the media not to publish any reports based on rumour.

There have been several attempts on Hasina's life to silence her and now a certain quarter is trying to raise various allegations to destroy her image, he said.

"Conspiracy to balance with the corruption of others and ill-motivated attempts to tarnish Hasina's image are not at all justified and people will not be befooled by such attempts as the country achieved success in all spheres under her leadership as the prime minister," he said.