Dhaka: BNP Acting Secretary General and Prime Minister's Political Adviser Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi today called for national unity to resist alleged conspiracies against Bangladesh's independence and sovereignty. Speaking at a human chain and protest rally in front of the National Press Club, Rizvi highlighted the political changes following the 2024 July Uprising and the 2025 national election.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Rizvi stated that the BNP and its alliance are running the state under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's leadership, with parliamentary democracy taking shape. The rally, organised by Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Muktijoddha Dal and Muktijoddha Projonmo, was a protest against an alleged conspiracy involving ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina.
Rizvi emphasized the government's commitment to maintaining functional democracy, ensuring freedom of expression, and protecting civil liberties and judicial independence. He noted that opposition leaders have been allowed to freely criticize the government both in and outside parliament.
Describing the BNP's current position as a continuation of its struggle for democracy under Khaleda Zia, Rizvi affirmed the party's commitment to multiparty democracy. He also explained that Tarique Rahman's decision not to attend BRICS, despite receiving an invitation, was a demonstration of prioritizing Bangladesh's independence and sovereignty.
Rizvi addressed the ongoing gas and fuel crisis, attributing it to difficulties in importing LNG, fuel, and diesel amid the US-Iran conflict. He mentioned that the government is exploring alternative sources from Indonesia, Malaysia, and Qatar to maintain gas pressure and support industries and households.
Referring to recent activities at Dhaka University Central Students' Union (DUCSU) and elsewhere, Rizvi called for increased vigilance, warning against attempts to undermine the legacy of the 1971 Liberation War as an insult to the country's martyrs. He urged political and social groups to uphold the spirit and achievements of the Liberation War.
The event was presided over by Muktijoddha Dal President Bir Muktijoddha Ishtiaq Aziz Ulfat, with Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Muktijoddha Projonmo Convener and State Minister for Liberation War Affairs Ishraque Hossain attending as a special guest. Leaders and activists from the two organizations participated in the human chain and protest rally.