Dhaka: Local Government Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has described the attack on Iran as ‘horrible.’ ‘We are living in very difficult and unstable times. There is a terrible lack of morality in world politics,’ he said. Mirza Fakhrul, also Secretary General of the BNP, made the remarks at the first death anniversary of BNP Chairperson’s Advisory Council Member Professor Shahida Rafique, held at the Institute of Science and Technology (IST) auditorium in Dhanmondi on Monday afternoon.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Mirza Fakhrul stated, ‘Interfering with the sovereignty of a country without reason, killing the head of the state, and detaining its president in prison. this is a terrible situation.’ He emphasized the values of human rights, democracy, and the independence of every country, expressing deep concern about global events. Despite global instability, he noted that in Bangladesh, people are still making the right decisions.
Paying tribute to Professor Shahida Rafique, Mirza Fakhrul remarked, ‘She always spoke the truth. She faced many challenges but never gave up. I am sad that when there is a chance for better days, she is no longer with us.’ Professor Shahida Rafique, former Dean of Dhaka University and founding chairman of the Institute of Science and Technology, passed away on 2 March last year.
Referring to the country’s challenges, Mirza Fakhrul highlighted the long road ahead, noting that over the past 17-18 years, fascist forces have undermined many institutions, particularly the education system. He called for the rebuilding of institutions, the strengthening of human rights, good governance, the rule of law, and the welfare state to honor the work and wishes of Dr. Shahida. Mirza Fakhrul also expressed his continued support for the institution founded by Professor Shahida Rafique.