Dhaka: BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir today praised Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani as an unparalleled figure with a distinct political philosophy and struggle, asserting that no one can be compared to him. Fakhrul made these remarks while addressing a discussion meeting organized by the Bhashani Janashakti Party at the Zahur Hossain Chowdhury Hall of the National Press Club, chaired by the party’s Chairman, Freedom Fighter Sheikh Rafiqul Islam Bablu.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Fakhrul highlighted Maulana Bhashani as a visionary for independent Bangladesh and an undisputed leader in the anti-imperialist struggle. He was committed to the rights of farmers, laborers, and the common people. Fakhrul noted that although many leaders trained by Bhashani later held state power, the Bangladesh envisioned by Maulana Bhashani has yet to be realized, even 49 years after his passing.
Fakhrul extended gratitude to the government and the Election Commission for announcing the election date and condemned the attack on Dhaka-8 independent candidate Osman Hadi. He urged the government to ensure a peaceful election environment.
Jatiya Party Chairman Mostafa Jamal Haider emphasized the need to uphold Bhashani’s ideals to build the Bangladesh of his dreams. He noted Bhashani’s reputation as the ‘Mazlum Jananeta’ (Leader of the Oppressed People) for his advocacy for the masses and the persecution he faced.
Special Guest Nazmul Haque Nannu, an advisor to the BNP Chairperson and a columnist, described Bhashani as a guardian of nationalism who lived a simple life and inspired his followers to serve humanity.
Sheikh Rafiqul Islam Bablu, in his presidential address, called for December 12 and November 17 to be declared national days in honor of Bhashani’s birthday and death anniversary, respectively. He also advocated for the inclusion of Bhashani’s life stories in educational curricula.
Dr. Abu Yusuf Selim, Secretary General of the Bhashani Janashakti Party, portrayed Bhashani as a true follower of Islam whose life and philosophy offer lessons for those practicing Islamic politics. He noted the inherent positive aspects of socialism and democracy in Islam.
The event also featured speeches from Party Presidium Members Aminul Islam Selim, Advocate Mohammad Ali, Babul Biswas, Bilkis Khondkar, Mohammad Ariful Islam; Vice Chairman Mosharraf Hossain; Joint Secretary General Professor Harunur Rashid; Publicity Secretary Mehedi Hasan Tapan; President of Rickshaw-Van Workers Party Ratan Dewan; and Bangsal Thana President Imrul Hasan Wasim.