Dhaka: BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman today said that autocracy was defeated on December 6, 1990, in the country, resulting in the liberation of democracy. In a post on his verified Facebook page, he remarked, "December 6 is an unforgettable day. On this day in 1990, the era of autocracy came to an end on a bloody and slippery path."
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Tarique Rahman noted that Ershad, on March 24, 1982, broke his professional trust and oath, used force to overthrow elected President Justice Abdus Sattar, killed democracy, and imposed unconstitutional rule. He said, "This subverted the constitutional multi-party politics that was guaranteed by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, the great announcer of independence. The autocrat Hussein Muhammad Ershad turned democratic institutions into ruins."
Mentioning Khaleda Zia as 'Deshnetri,' he added, "To bring back democracy, 'Deshnetri' Begum Khaleda Zia tirelessly fought for nine long years with firm determination, earning her the reputation of an uncompromising leader. She built an unstoppable mass movement. Following this, on this day, December 6, 1990, democracy was liberated by defeating the autocrat through the combined strength of students and the general public."
Rahman further criticized the Awami League, stating, "Inspired by the spirit of that hard-won democracy, students and the general people once again defeated a vicious fascist force on August 5, 2024. Historically, the fascist Awami League has been a terrible enemy of democracy. After the end of the misrule of fascist Sheikh Hasina, our relentless struggle must continue to ensure the complete revival of democracy and the establishment of democratic values in the state and society."
He also highlighted the hardships faced under Sheikh Hasina's rule, mentioning that "Mother of Democracy" Deshnetri Begum Khaleda Zia was subjected to jail, oppression, and various forms of persecution. He noted that due to continuous torture and abuse, the ailing Deshnetri's life is now in extreme danger and expressed his prayers for her quick recovery.
Tarique Rahman also emphasized the widespread oppression faced by millions of activists of the country's nationalist forces, stating that the entire country was held captive. He paid deep tribute to the brave martyrs who sacrificed their lives in the anti-autocracy movement from 1982 to 1990 and prayed for the eternal peace of their souls.
Concluding his remarks, Tarique called upon all democratic forces to remain united at all times to prevent the resurgence of defeated anti-democratic forces.