BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has accused the ruling Awami League of becoming isolated from the public due to their actions, including undermining democracy and perpetrating injustices. He expressed this opinion on Saturday (December 14) during an event at Mirpur Martyred Intellectuals' Graveyard, where BNP leaders and activists paid their respects to the intellectuals killed in 1971.

Speaking to reporters, Mirza Fakhrul said, "The Awami League has lost touch with the people because of its actions that include the suppression of democracy and committing atrocities. This is evident even today, on the occasion of Martyred Intellectuals' Day, where they remain absent from public connection."

He added that the BNP remains hopeful for positive change, reiterating that a system reflecting the people's desires will be implemented soon. "We believe an election, under the will of the people, will happen very soon. This election must be free, fair, and neutral so that the citizens of Bangladesh can choose their true representatives."

Highlighting the significance of Martyred Intellectuals' Day, Mirza Fakhrul remarked, "On this day in 1971, just before our victory, the Pakistan occupation forces brutally abducted and murdered prominent intellectuals, including journalists, academics, scientists, and professionals. We lost many of our nation’s brightest minds. Today, on behalf of the BNP, our Chairperson Khaleda Zia, and Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, we collectively honor and pray for the departed souls of the martyred intellectuals."

He further emphasized the sacrifices made in 1971 and reiterated the BNP's commitment to building a democratic and prosperous Bangladesh, one that aligns with the vision for which the Liberation War was fought. "We renew our pledge to realize the ideals of 1971. The war was fought for an independent, democratic, and prosperous nation, and we must not let those sacrifices go in vain," he stated.

Mirza Fakhrul also credited the late President Ziaur Rahman, founder of the BNP, for his role in proclaiming the country’s independence during the Liberation War. "The Liberation War reached its course through the leadership of martyred President Ziaur Rahman," he said, underscoring BNP's historical contributions to the nation’s independence and democratic development.

Referring to the current political situation, Mirza Fakhrul noted that recent events have opened new opportunities to defeat what he described as “fascist forces.” "The situation has presented us with a crucial opportunity to restore democracy and rebuild Bangladesh as a truly democratic, modern, and equitable state," he said.

Earlier in the morning, at around 9:30 AM, BNP leaders and activists, led by Mirza Fakhrul, gathered at the Mirpur Martyred Intellectuals' Graveyard to pay their respects. They placed floral wreaths and offered prayers for the martyred intellectuals.

The event was attended by BNP Standing Committee members Dr. Abdul Moyeen Khan, Nazrul Islam Khan, and Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain. Other notable leaders present included Advisory Council members Abdus Salam and Abul Khayer Bhuiyan, Senior Joint Secretary General Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, and Joint Secretary Generals Khairul Kabir Khokon and Habib Un Nabi Khan Sohel. Thousands of BNP leaders and activists participated in the gathering to honor the sacrifices made by the intellectuals who were targeted during the Liberation War.

Mirza Fakhrul concluded by reaffirming the BNP's commitment to democratic values and ensuring that the people’s voices are heard. He emphasized that the party will continue working towards creating a Bangladesh that upholds equality, justice, and democratic governance, which remain integral to the vision of the Liberation War.