Dhaka: Information Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon on Saturday warned that no one would be allowed to create obstacles to the country's nation-building efforts, emphasizing that the government would act in the interest of the state and the people if necessary. "The era of fascist upheaval is over. Now is our responsibility to build the country," Swapon declared.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Swapon stated that the government would first seek constructive and peaceful solutions to any problems but would not hesitate to take necessary action if the country's interests were at stake. He made these remarks while speaking at a photo exhibition and discussion titled '15 Years of Fascism and the Mass Uprising of 2024' at Jatiya Press Club.
Swapon highlighted the importance of balancing youthful energy and courage with experience and wisdom. "There is no shame in admitting this. Those who fail to understand it risk a bleak future," he added. He noted that Bangladesh had entered a new phase after the fall of fascism and stressed the need to strengthen democratic institutions and parliamentary culture.
"When we want to practise democratic culture in a fascism-free Bangladesh and establish an effective parliamentary system, we see that some people prefer street politics over parliament," Swapon observed. He also alleged that certain groups were attempting to create disorder through social media and street agitation instead of contributing constructively to the democratic process.
Swapon assured that the government was aware of attempts to create instability but would continue to respond responsibly and seek peaceful solutions. He also praised BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman for his leadership during the anti-fascist movement, noting that Rahman had provided encouragement to protesters from abroad.
Referring to the slogan, 'Jodi Tumi Voy Pao, Tobe Tumi Shesh, Jodi Tumi Rukhe Darao, Tobe Tumi Bangladesh,' Swapon said it had inspired people during the movement. He claimed that various attempts had been made after August 5 to delay or disrupt the national election by denying people their voting rights, and noted that even responsible state figures had spoken against the national elections.
Swapon mentioned that Tarique Rahman's meeting with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus in London helped resolve uncertainty over the election schedule, leading to the polls on February 12. He emphasized that the election reflected the people's mandate and resulted in Tarique Rahman becoming Prime Minister.
Swapon concluded by stating that the elected government was the outcome of years of political struggle and should be protected, and he stressed the importance of preserving photographs and other records documenting the movement. The event was presided over by Prime Minister's Additional Press Secretary and Convener of 'Amra BNP Paribar' Atikur Rahman Ruman, with speeches from Liberation War Affairs Minister Ahmed Azam Khan, Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists Secretary General Quader Gani Chowdhury, National Press Club President Hasan Hafiz, Bangladesh Photojournalist Association President KM Mohsin, and General Secretary Babul Talukder.