Dhaka: BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir today stated that if the party wins the upcoming national election, it will establish a separate cultural academy dedicated to the country's ethnic communities.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Fakhrul made this announcement as the chief guest at the Dhaka Wangala-2025 ceremony held at Banani Bidyaniketan School and College. He emphasized that the establishment of this academy in Dhaka and the official celebration of ethnic minorities' festivals would be a priority for the BNP government.
Fakhrul stressed that addressing the issues faced by ethnic minorities would be a priority if the BNP forms the government. He shared that he has recently engaged with these communities to understand their challenges better. "I have developed a relationship with the ethnic minorities. I am talking to them and have listened to their problems," he remarked.
Highlighting the importance of integrating ethnic minorities into the national culture, the BNP leader said, "Everyone must unite with our mainstream culture. In spirit and mind, everyone must stand up as a citizen of Bangladesh." He cited the vision of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, who promoted Bangladeshi Nationalism to recognize both Bengalis and ethnic minorities as integral parts of the nation.
Fakhrul also acknowledged the efforts of BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia in addressing minority issues. He mentioned her Vision 2030 initiative, which proposed the formation of a separate Rights Commission to protect the culture and heritage of ethnic minorities and to resolve their issues.