Dhaka: BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed today stated that the people will reject anyone who creates obstacles in the country's democratic journey. "It took a long 16-year struggle and immense sacrifice to acquire the right to vote. Therefore, people will reject those who obstruct this democratic journey," he remarked while inaugurating the second day of the BNP's seven-day programme titled 'Plan for Nation Building' at the Krishibid Institution, Bangladesh (KIB) Convention Hall in the capital.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the event was presided over by BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi and moderated by Joint Secretary General Habib-un-Nabi Khan Sohel. Other senior leaders also addressed the programme, which saw participation from leaders and activists of various Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) units.
Salahuddin Ahmed accused a political party of deceiving the nation by exploiting religion, stating, "The party has no principles, no ideology, and no plan, and is attempting to mislead people. However, their mask has been exposed."
He highlighted the sacrifices made by Tarique Rahman to establish democracy in Bangladesh, emphasizing that the interests of the country should always come first. "For this reason, Tarique Rahman says, 'Bangladesh first.' Therefore, our foremost concern must also be whether what we write and say causes any harm to the country's interests," Salahuddin added.
The BNP leader urged JCD leaders and activists to counter misinformation on social media, noting that abuse and character assassination are rampant online. "We may not spend time dwelling on these things, but because of your age, you must lead the biggest counter-effort there," he said.
Salahuddin also discussed the reforms and development initiatives during the tenures of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. He stressed the need for knowledge-based, merit-based, and technology-driven politics, stating that "chanting slogans alone is not enough."
He elaborated on the BNP's future plans, including the Family Card, Farmer Card, and Health Card, emphasizing the importance of clearly communicating these benefits to the public. "Our work plan, including the 31-point demand, must be presented clearly to the public. Farmers must understand the Agriculture Card, women must be informed of the Family Card benefits, and everyone should know how the Health Card functions," he explained.
The programme is set to continue until December 13, except on Fridays, with participation from BNP-affiliated groups such as Juba Dal, Swechchhasebak Dal, and Ulama Dal.