BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has warned that the longer the general election is delayed, the further the country will regress.
While speaking on Monday afternoon during a prayer gathering and discussion held at the Sunrise Community Centre in Sylhet city -- organized by UK BNP President MA Malik to pray for the recovery of Begum Khaleda Zia and the long life of Tarique Rahman -- Fakhrul said investment will stall, women will lose their sense of security, the judicial system will collapse, and law and order will break down in case of further delays.
For this reason, Fakhrul emphasized the need for an elected government backed by the people.
“Hasina did not step down on her own. It took the struggle, blood, and sacrifices of many people to free us from fascism. We fought for democracy.”
He said: “We want to establish a country where people can speak freely, enjoy freedom of expression, where women feel safe, youth have access to employment, and citizens can receive proper healthcare.
“This is the kind of country we envision, and we have embarked on a fresh struggle to achieve it. Leading this movement is Tarique Rahman, while Begum Khaleda Zia, despite her illness, continues to guide us.”
The BNP secretary general accused Hasina of suppressing democracy, shutting down elections and media outlets, and stripping people of their fundamental rights.
In that context, he said late president Ziaur Rahman introduced multi-party democracy and created new opportunities.
“We are the party that declared independence. We want a democratic Bangladesh, we want to create jobs, and we want to build a prosperous nation. That is why the BNP has proposed a 31-point program, which outlines the future of Bangladesh.”
He thanked Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus, saying: “We thank him for meeting Tarique Rahman in London and setting a timeline for the election by February.”
Fakhrul also cautioned party members, saying: “No one should be able to accuse us of land grabbing, extortion, or forced occupation. Victory is certain, Insha’Allah. Get ready for the election. Reach out to the people so they understand that there is no alternative to the BNP.”
“Where Begum Zia held her rally in Sylhet, we will soon gather again with Tarique Rahman,” he added.
