Chittagong: Hinting at a strict stance against the Awami League (AL), BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir asserted that 18 crore people in Bangladesh oppose the AL due to alleged oppression since independence, undermining democracy, and stifling press freedom.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Fakhrul made these remarks while addressing a large rally at Polo Ground as the chief guest. He referenced rallies organized by the NCP in Chittagong’s New Market area and Dhaka, demanding a ban on the AL. “While our rally is being held here, another two gatherings are also being held at Chittagong and Dhaka. What is their demand? Their demand is that the AL should be banned, right?” he stated, emphasizing his party’s stance on the issue.
Fakhrul further claimed that Prime Minister Hasina has fled, yet her supporters remain, conspiring to reestablish AL’s rule. He accused the ruling party of filing false cases against 60 lakh people, killing nearly 20,000, and subjecting 1,700 to enforced disappearances over the past 15 years.
The BNP leader highlighted the suffocating situation created to keep BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia in prison for six years and prevent Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman from returning to Bangladesh. He credited the mass movement of youths for ending this situation, forcing the rulers to flee due to misrule and corruption.
Fakhrul praised Shaheed Ziaur Rahman for meaningful reforms, restoring press freedom, and implementing policies that bolstered the garment sector. He also commended Begum Khaleda Zia for introducing the caretaker system and promoting women’s empowerment and education.
Addressing the aspirations of the youth, Fakhrul emphasized their desire for business, jobs, peace in educational institutions, and a democratic country where free speech is allowed. He urged the youth to awaken and assert their rights.
BNP Secretary General Fakhrul stated that Ziaur Rahman, Khaleda Zia, and Tarique Rahman have worked for a democratic Bangladesh. He asserted that Tarique Rahman prioritizes Bangladesh’s independence and sovereignty, with decisions to be made on the streets.
The rally was presided over by central President of Swechchhasebak Dal S M Jinali, with participation from CCC Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain and Juba Dal President Abdul Monayem Munna. BNP Standing Committee Member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury encouraged peaceful progress and a new political culture, while cricketer Tamim Iqbal called for collaborative efforts to advance sports in the country.
Organized as part of BNP’s initiative to hold events in four cities, the rally aimed to engage youth and disseminate the party’s 31-point proposals nationwide. Thousands of BNP workers and supporters attended, transforming the Polo Ground and surrounding areas into a sea of humanity, with colorful banners and national flags symbolizing their cause.