Dhaka: BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has expressed concerns that those who opposed Bangladesh’s independence during the 1971 Liberation War are attempting to rise again. He emphasized that the freedom-loving people of Bangladesh, who aspire for democracy and independence, will thwart these conspiracies to maintain the country’s sovereignty.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Fakhrul made these remarks after placing a wreath at the grave of BNP founder Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman in commemoration of Victory Day. He highlighted the significance of December 16, marking the final victory of the independence war initiated by President Ziaur Rahman, as a crucial day for the BNP.
Fakhrul reaffirmed the party’s commitment to preserving independence and democracy in Bangladesh. He stated that members of the BNP took an oath at the shrine of the Proclaimer of Independence to continue their struggle for a democratic state.
The BNP Secretary General also paid homage to the martyrs of the Liberation War on behalf of the BNP, Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, and Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman. He appealed for divine intervention for the recovery of Begum Khaleda Zia, who is currently in poor health and acknowledged for her contributions to Bangladesh’s democracy.
Earlier in the day, Fakhrul, along with the BNP’s Standing Committee members, paid respects at Ziaur Rahman’s grave and participated in a special prayer session. Key figures present included Salahuddin Ahmed, Mirza Abbas, and Gayeshwar Chandra Roy, among others.
Various BNP-associated organizations, including the Jatiyatabadi Muktijoddha Dal and Jatiyatabadi Jubo Dal, also laid wreaths at the grave. Fakhrul mentioned that party leader Tarique Rahman, currently in exile, is expected to return to Bangladesh on December 25, a move anticipated to bolster the party’s democratic efforts.
In the morning, Fakhrul, accompanied by thousands of party leaders and activists, paid tribute to the martyrs by laying a wreath at the National Memorial in Savar.