Dhaka: Speaker of the Jatiya Sangsad Major (Retd) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed, Bir Bikrom, today expressed strong optimism that both the treasury and opposition benches will work together in the national interest to realize the dreams and aspirations of the people through constructive parliamentary practices. Addressing the inaugural sitting of the 13th Jatiya Sangbad today, the Speaker emphasized that the parliament represents the spirit of democracy and the people of Bangladesh have always remained vigilant guardians of democratic values.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Speaker noted that the country’s hard-earned democracy was established through immense sacrifices by the people. He highlighted the historic struggle of 1971, referring to Bangladesh’s Liberation War as fundamentally a war for democracy and the rights of the people. He recalled that the armed struggle for independence began on March 26, 1971, under the leadership of the then Major Ziaur Rahman, inspiring the entire nation to join the war.
The Speaker underscored the sacrifices made by students, workers, and people from all walks of life who fought for nine months to secure independence for the country. He prayed for eternal peace for the souls of all martyrs of the Liberation War, acknowledging their sacrifices as the foundation of Bangladesh’s democratic journey.
Highlighting the evolution of parliamentary democracy, Hafiz Uddin Ahmed spoke about several stages of democratic development over the decades. He pointed out interruptions in democracy, such as the introduction of a one-party rule in 1975, which he described as a moment when democracy was effectively buried. Despite these setbacks and the rise of authoritarian regimes, the Speaker noted the persistent resistance by the people of Bangladesh against autocracy, ultimately leading to the restoration of democratic order through continuous struggles and movements.
Referring to recent political developments, he mentioned a mass uprising led by students, political activists, and ordinary citizens in July and August 2024, which resulted in the fall of a fascist government. He paid tribute to the martyrs of that movement, including Abu Sayeed, Mugdha, and Wasim, who sacrificed their lives for democracy.
The Speaker remarked on the general election held on February 12 this year, asserting his belief that it was the most credible election among the ten national polls he had experienced in his political life. He noted that people are now eagerly waiting to see the functioning of this parliament, emphasizing that fulfilling electoral commitments remains the primary responsibility of every Member of Parliament.
He stressed that the goals of the Liberation War-equality, human dignity, and social justice-must guide the activities of the parliament. According to the Speaker, citizens of this land have struggled for generations to realize those ideals, and the responsibility of turning those aspirations into reality now rests with the members of the present parliament.
Expressing optimism about the role of all lawmakers, the Speaker asserted his belief that both sides of the House will work together to translate people’s aspirations into reality. He assured that the opposition will be given full opportunity to play a meaningful and effective role in parliament.
In a move to maintain neutrality, he announced his resignation from the post of a standing committee member of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, seeking sincere cooperation from all members in conducting parliamentary business. The Speaker described the parliament as the central hub of political and administrative activities of the country and called upon all lawmakers to place national interest above party considerations.
He concluded his address by reiterating the commitment to putting national interest above party interest, emphasizing “Bangladesh first” as the guiding principle. The Speaker expressed hope that the 13th Jatiya Sangsad will become a vibrant institution dedicated to democratic values and the welfare of the people.