Dhaka: Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman emphasized the need for unity among all nationalist forces in the spirit of November 7 to advance democracy and safeguard the country’s independence and sovereignty. He conveyed this message through a post on his verified Facebook account, in commemoration of the National Revolution and Solidarity Day, which is set to be observed tomorrow.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Tarique Rahman extended greetings to the nation on the occasion of National Revolution and Solidarity Day, describing November 7 as a historic and unforgettable day. On this day in 1975, patriotism-fueled soldiers and citizens took to the streets with a commitment to protect national independence and revive democracy. Tarique highlighted the significance of the November 7 revolution, underscoring its lasting impact.
Rahman pointed out that after Bangladesh’s independence, the then ruling forces posed a threat to the country’s independence and sovereignty by e
ngaging in lawlessness and political chaos for self-interest. He criticized the formation of a one-party system under Bangladesh Krishak Sramik Awami League (BAKSAL) that hindered democracy and stifled freedom of speech and expression, casting a shadow of unrest over the nation.
He recounted the events of November 3, 1975, when Ziaur Rahman, the country’s independence declarer, was imprisoned by “evil forces.” On November 7, the combined efforts of soldiers and citizens led to Ziaur Rahman’s liberation, strengthening the country’s independence under his leadership and beginning the era of multi-party democracy.
Rahman lamented the assassination of President Ziaur Rahman in 1981, viewing it as an attempt by local followers of hegemonic powers to eliminate obstacles in their path. Despite this, he noted that the people remain united in their determination to protect freedom and democracy.
He accused the Awami League of forcibly seizing state power for about 16 years, weakening national sovereignty through re
ckless policies. Under their regime, he claimed, forced disappearances, murders, and extrajudicial killings became rampant as the government sought to control politics, the economy, and culture.
Rahman mentioned the prolonged detention of Begum Khaleda Zia, a democracy symbol, as part of this oppressive regime. He referenced a student-led uprising on August 5 that forced the regime to flee, paving the way for democracy’s resurgence.
He concluded by stressing the importance of ensuring fundamental democratic requirements, such as free and fair elections and basic rights, and criticized the Awami League’s policies for harming the country’s culture, tradition, and language.