Gazipur: BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has asserted that the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is the pioneer of political reform in the country. Addressing claims that the BNP does not support reform, he emphasized that the party has historically laid the groundwork for significant changes in national politics.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Fakhrul highlighted the role of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman in restoring democracy after the fall of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1975. He stated that Ziaur Rahman set Bangladesh on a new path, and the 31-point program announced by Tarique Rahman offers a comprehensive framework of reform.
Mirza Fakhrul spoke at a memorial meeting on the ninth death anniversary of Brigadier General (retd) ASM Hannan Shah. The event was organized by the Hannan Shah Smriti Sangsad at Kapasia Government Pilot High School field. He mentioned that Dr. Yunus, a Nobel Laureate, plays a key role in rebuilding the country's economy and administration through a neutral Advisory Council and six reform commissions that have been active in recent months.
He further stated that the government must maintain neutrality as the political landscape shifts. Mirza Fakhrul also declared that the political force led by Hasina has been effectively countered by public resistance, setting the stage for upcoming elections. He urged BNP members to actively campaign door-to-door for the party's 'sheaf of paddy' symbol.
Additionally, Mirza Fakhrul recounted BNP's contributions to women's empowerment, citing initiatives by Shaheed Zia and Begum Khaleda Zia, such as establishing the Ministry of Women and making education free for girls up to class twelve. On foreign relations, he criticized India for its actions on the border and interference in Bangladesh's elections, advocating for a relationship based on equality.
Referring to Tarique Rahman's reform plan, he noted that it includes strategies for creating one crore jobs through various sectors. Mirza Fakhrul paid tribute to the late Brigadier Hannan Shah, praising his loyalty and resilience during challenging times for the BNP.
The meeting was chaired by Gazipur district BNP President Fazlul Haque Milon and conducted by Kapasia BNP Member Secretary Khandaker Azizur Rahman Pera. Other speakers included Shah Riazul Hannan, Kazi Sayeedul Alam Babul, Dr. M A Kaiyum, and Humayun Kabir Khan.