BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has issued a strong warning, saying that nothing other than democracy will prevail in Bangladesh.
Addressing a crowd in Naya Paltan before the party’s rally on National Revolution and Solidarity Day on Friday, Fakhrul said: “Today, we will prove that BNP is the largest political force in Bangladesh. November 7 is one of the most significant dates in our political history. On this day, Ziaur Rahman defeated fascism and imperialism and protected our independence.”
Following his remarks, the rally was inaugurated by BNP’s acting chairman, Tarique Rahman, who joined virtually. Mirza Fakhrul said: “On this day, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman took charge of Bangladesh, followed by Begum Khaleda Zia, and now Tarique Rahman leads us forward.”
Fakhrul said the party’s resistance against what he described as “Awami fascism,” recalling that “in 2024, we witnessed yet another uprising of students and citizens. For 17 years, we have been struggling against this regime, which has destroyed Bangladesh’s political and economic structure and turned the country into a state ruled by mafias and looters.”
He warned of future threats, saying: “Although Sheikh Hasina may flee, many of her allies remain in the country, waiting to strike against Bangladesh. We are ready to uproot any destructive force and will remain united to defend our democracy.”
The rally, presided over by BNP’s publicity secretary Salauddin Tuku, saw participation from senior BNP leaders, including Dr. Abdul Moyeen Khan, Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, Dr Zahid Hossain, and Vice Chairman Abdul Awal Mintoo.
In 2024, BNP has been able to mark November 7 in a favorable environment, with posters and other promotional materials spread throughout the country.
Participants from Dhaka and surrounding areas gathered at Naya Paltan for the rally, with senior leaders riding mini trucks and joining the event. To draw attention, a satirical depiction of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was showcased, with a performer dressed in a pink saree and glasses inside a cage.
The rally, which began on Friday afternoon, was still ongoing as of 5:20 PM. Since November 7 fell on a working day, BNP opted to hold the rally today, making use of the holiday. Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul noted that the rally was expected to conclude within an hour.
November 7 marks the 1975 civil-military uprising that led to Ziaur Rahman’s ascent to power, celebrated by BNP as National Revolution and Solidarity Day. BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman and Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir both issued statements commemorating the day.