ছবি: Photo: Collected
On Wednesday, February 19, BNP’s central sports affairs secretary and Dhaka North City BNP convener Aminul Haque cautioned against any attempts by members of the interim government to become autocratic under the influence of the ruling Awami League. Speaking at a workshop organized by the Shah Ali Thana BNP of Dhaka North, Aminul Haque emphasized that such ambitions for power would face strong resistance from the people of Bangladesh.
The rally, held at the Eidgah Maidan in Mirpur 1, addressed the 31-point agenda proposed by the BNP for national reforms and emphasized the party's commitment to restoring democracy and implementing substantial reforms for the betterment of the nation. Aminul Haque specifically warned individuals within the interim government, who may be under the influence of the Awami League, about their attempts to consolidate power. He stated, “We warn those who are trying to hold on to power under the shadow of the current regime—if you attempt to become autocrats, the people will resist you.”
Haque, speaking in front of a crowd of BNP activists, reiterated the party’s determination to ensure that no one would be allowed to undermine the democratic principles that Bangladesh fought hard to restore. Reflecting on the past 17 years of struggle, he affirmed, "After many sacrifices, Bangladesh has regained its independence and freedom from autocracy. We will not let anyone take away the hard-won democratic freedoms of this country."
The BNP leader further criticized the efforts to delay the national elections under the guise of interim government reforms. "The people of Bangladesh have one clear expectation: a free, fair, and transparent election. An election where the people's voice is heard and a government elected by the people can govern the nation and carry out much-needed reforms," he emphasized.
Haque pointed out that despite efforts from various quarters to disrupt the country’s stability, such plans had not succeeded. "For the last six months, conspiracies have been brewing within state institutions, but the people of Bangladesh remain vigilant and committed to their democratic values," he noted. "The people are aware of the forces trying to destabilize the country, and they are ready to stand against any such efforts."
In a reference to the previous tenure of the Awami League government, Haque reminded the gathering that the ruling party had initially planned to retain power until 2041 but failed due to the people’s resistance. "It was the common people who took to the streets, pushing back against the autocratic rule and forcing them to fall," he said.
Former Secretary and BNP Chairperson’s advisor, Mohammad Ismail Zobirullah, addressed the gathering as the chief guest, reaffirming BNP’s commitment to implementing the 31-point agenda if the party returns to power. "The 31-point agenda is our promise to the people. It will be the blueprint for the future governance of Bangladesh," he said.
The 31-point agenda, which the BNP sees as a comprehensive framework for national reform, is considered by the party as the country’s roadmap to a better and more democratic future. Zobirullah assured the crowd that the implementation of these reforms would be the first priority if BNP were to assume power.
The workshop was chaired by Ferdousi Ahmed Mishti, the joint convener of Dhaka North City BNP, and featured several key leaders of the party. Among the speakers were Dr. Mahdi Amin, a senior advisor to BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman, and Mustofa Zaman, the general secretary of Dhaka North BNP. Other prominent leaders such as Mohammad Mustafizur Rahman Segun and S.M. Jahangir Hossain also addressed the participants.
In their speeches, party members called for unity in the face of growing challenges to the democratic process and pledged to work towards the implementation of the 31-point agenda. The ongoing efforts for a peaceful and democratic Bangladesh, they noted, would continue to drive the party’s activism until free and fair elections were held.
The rally and workshop highlighted BNP’s unwavering stance on the importance of free elections, democratic governance, and political stability. Party leaders emphasized the need for a unified approach to protect the nation’s democratic future, urging all citizens to remain alert and active in pushing back against attempts to undermine Bangladesh’s democratic institutions.
As the political situation in Bangladesh continues to evolve, the BNP has maintained its position as a vocal advocate for reform and democracy, underscoring its commitment to restoring the voice of the people in governance.
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