BNP Vice Chairman Barkat Ullah Bulu has said that those who do not recognize the Liberation War of 1971 are not qualified to participate in elections in this country.
Bulu made the comment while addressing a meeting as chief guest, organized by the Mashiur Rahman Jadu Mia Death Anniversary Celebration Committee on Tuesday at the Jahur Hossain Chowdhury Hall of the National Press Club.
He said: "Those who formed parties opposing inequality have suddenly begun advocating for a return to the pre-1947 condition. They do not recognize 1971. Those who do not acknowledge the Liberation War or respect its significance also fail to respect martyred president Ziaur Rahman. The year 1971 represents the foundation of our independence—a Bangladesh earned through the sacrifice of 3 million martyrs."
"After August 5, the people of this country expected an imminent election—one that would allow them to elect their representatives and form a government. Our leader, Tarique Rahman, has declared that even if BNP secures 250 seats, we will not form a government alone.
"Instead, we will establish a national government comprising all political parties involved in the movement. Given the state Sheikh Hasina left the country in, rescuing, reforming and repairing it is only possible through a national government," Bulu added.
Meanwhile, BNP Vice Chairman Shamsuzzaman Dudu said: "If we can embrace nationalist politics and uphold the ideology of Ziaur Rahman, Bangladesh will be saved and its independence will be safeguarded. To uphold this ideology, we must remember those who championed this political vision."
He continued: "To neglect Mashiur Rahman Jadu is to neglect the democratic movement, democratic politics and our independence. Throughout his life, he fought for people's rights, national sovereignty and the country’s independence.
"He played a crucial role in the founding of BNP. We must uphold the politics of shaheed president Ziaur Rahman and Jadu bhai. If we do so, we will be able to overthrow fascism and protect the country from foreign aggression."
