Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said that the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) does not believe in a one-party system of governance. He stated that BNP is the only political party that has been fighting and struggling for democracy over the past fifty years.
Speaking to journalists on Saturday afternoon after inspecting the wooden bridge at North Islampur in Munshiganj town, Fakhrul said, “BNP has fought for democracy every day and every moment. BNP founder President Ziaur Rahman established multi-party democracy in Bangladesh. BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman has remained in exile abroad in his struggle to uphold democracy.”
He further said that BNP had been elected with a two-thirds majority through public support. “Therefore, questioning BNP’s commitment to democracy would not be appropriate,” he added.
Commenting on Jamaat-e-Islami, Fakhrul said, “Jamaat is a regimented political party. They do not believe in democracy.”
Responding to a question from journalists regarding Malaysia, the minister said bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Malaysia would become stronger and more robust. He noted that any agreements would be finalized while safeguarding the interests and dignity of both countries. Discussions would also take place on reopening the labor market that had previously been suspended.
Earlier, addressing local residents, Fakhrul said the BNP government had been in office for only three months but had already initiated numerous development programs. “You have seen the introduction of Family Cards and Farmer Cards. Arrangements have also been made to provide allowances to individuals associated with religious institutions. In addition, a nationwide canal excavation program has been launched,” he said.
Responding to local demands, he announced that a permanent bridge would be constructed in place of the existing wooden bridge connecting North Islampur and Mollarchar over the Kalidas River in Munshiganj. He also instructed the relevant authorities to take necessary steps in this regard.
Later, the minister offered prayers at the graves of the martyrs of the July Movement at Uttar Islampur Graveyard.
