Dhaka: BNP Chairperson’s Advisor and valiant freedom fighter Abdus Salam has emphasized the irreplaceable role of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in safeguarding the nation, advocating for democracy, and ensuring religious freedom. Salam, who also serves as the Chief Coordinator of the Dhaka-17 Constituency’s Election Management Committee, expressed these views during a meeting with ‘Olama Mashayekh’ (Islamic scholars and clerics) at the BNP Election Main Office in Banani.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Salam warned of a certain group’s insidious activities aimed at destabilizing the country. He accused this group of initially supporting the BNP in power only to later conspire for control through street movements, posing a significant threat to national stability. Salam asserted that the BNP has consistently aligned its actions with Islamic principles and underscored the critical importance of the forthcoming election, not only for the party but also for the broader quest for independence, religious practice, and the country’s future.
Salam paid homage to BNP founder Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, highlighting his historic role in fostering peace during the Iran-Iraq war and creating dignified employment opportunities for Bangladeshi workers in Saudi Arabia. He noted that Ziaur Rahman’s legacy as a ‘Shaheed’ (Martyr) is unique in history.
Addressing the issue of misinformation, Salam defended BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman against allegations, stating that Rahman had instructed party members to refrain from violence or chaos post-August 5, 2024, demonstrating his leadership qualities.
Salam concluded by inviting party members to seek support from the BNP office for election-related activities. Prof Dr. Farhad Halim Donor, another advisor to the BNP Chairperson, also spoke at the meeting. He praised Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman for his selfless declaration of independence, motivated purely by patriotism, and his subsequent return to the military barracks.
Dr. Donor recounted the events of November 7, when Ziaur Rahman took decisive action to protect national independence, sovereignty, and Islamic values, including incorporating “Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim” into the constitution. His regular practice of prayer and commitment to Islamic values at the state level were emphasized.
The meeting was attended by BNP Chairperson’s Advisor Nazimuddin Alam, various ‘Olama Mashayekh’, and other notable figures.