Dhaka: Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir today called for collective efforts to establish a truly effective democratic state, emphasizing the importance of unity in safeguarding democratic values. In a message marking the International Day of Democracy, he stated, “Having overcome dark days and brought down autocracy, we must now involve ourselves in united efforts for building an effective democratic state.”
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Fakhrul highlighted the significance of the day, noting that September 15 serves as a global reminder to uphold the rule of law, freedom of expression, civil rights, human rights, and institutional accountability. He emphasized the encouragement of democratic practice and exercise through the observance of this day.
The BNP secretary general paid tribute to those who sacrificed their lives in the pursuit of democracy in Bangladesh and around the world. He expressed his condolences to the injured and extended greetings to democracy-loving people globally.
Fakhrul remarked that democracy allows people to exercise sovereign power and ensures that the will of the people is prioritized. He noted that elected representatives work to provide services and make fair decisions, which prevents autocratic forces from rising.
He pointed out that remnants of one-party misrule exist in various countries, including Bangladesh, where an Awami regime has allegedly curtailed civil liberties and human rights. He cited incidents of press freedom being restricted and cases of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.
Fakhrul mentioned the detention of Begum Khaleda Zia on what he described as false charges and the oppression faced by BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman. He noted that despite overcoming a significant dark period, full democracy is yet to be achieved in Bangladesh.
He emphasized the importance of free and impartial elections for democracy and highlighted the need for decentralization, universal education, and social justice to realize true democracy. This year’s International Day of Democracy theme, “Achieving Gender Equality Action by Action,” was also addressed by Fakhrul, who spoke on ensuring equal opportunities for all genders in a democratic society.
Fakhrul concluded by calling for united efforts to build an effective democratic state.