Dhaka:BNP Acting Secretary General Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi emphasized that the sacrifices of Shaheed Nazir Uddin Jihad and other martyrs from the anti-autocracy movement continue to inspire the nation in its ongoing struggle to restore democracy.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Rizvi made these remarks during a commemorative meeting held at the Kazi Nazrul Islam Auditorium of Jatiya Press Club. The meeting marked the 36th martyrdom anniversary of Shaheed Nazir Uddin Jihad, who was killed during the 1990 anti-autocracy mass uprising.
Rizvi, who was the chief guest at the event, highlighted Jihad's journey from Ullapara in Sirajganj to join the movement, during which he lost his life to gunfire under the autocratic regime. He noted that Jihad's death galvanized the anti-autocracy movement, encouraging people to renew efforts toward restoring democracy.
He acknowledged the 1990 student uprising as a pivotal moment that led to the fall of autocrat Ershad, crediting the sacrifices of Shaheed Jihad, Dr. Milon, and numerous student leaders and activists. Rizvi also mentioned the significant contributions of student leaders Zafar, Joynal, Harun, and Mozammel, which continue to inspire the struggle for democracy.
Rizvi pointed out that challenges to democracy persisted even after the anti-autocracy movement's victory. He described the July Mass Uprising as part of the ongoing struggle against autocracy, praising former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia for her commitment to restoring democracy despite various adversities. BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman also continued this movement along the same path.
He paid tribute to those who lost their lives during the July uprising, including Abu Sayeed, Wasim Akram, Mugdho, and Ahnaf. Rizvi criticized the alleged corruption and abuses under previous autocratic regimes and called for effective measures to combat corruption and unethical practices within the administration and society.
Rizvi urged the public to support government actions against corruption and praised public welfare initiatives like the introduction of various cards and reopening of closed factories. He stressed the importance of vigilance against subversive activities and undemocratic forces, emphasizing the need to protect the nation's independence and sovereignty.
With the approaching Durga Puja, he called for communal harmony and peaceful coexistence, urging vigilance against any attempts to disrupt communal peace and emphasizing the need for security at Puja mandaps.
The meeting was chaired by Shaheed Jihad Smriti Parishad President Aman Ullah Aman and moderated by BNP Joint Secretary General Khairul Kabir Khokon. Other notable speakers included Prime Minister's Political Adviser Zahir Uddin Swapon, Mostafizur Rahman Babul, former lawmaker Nazimuddin Alam, Habibur Rahman Habib, and Khandaker Lutfor Rahman.