On a quiet Sunday, January 26, Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Secretary General of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), celebrated his 78th birthday amidst warm wishes and greetings from family, friends, and well-wishers. Reflecting on his life and political journey, Fakhrul shared his enduring hope for the return of democracy in Bangladesh during a conversation with the media.

Born on this day in 1948 in Thakurgaon, Fakhrul reached a milestone in his life’s journey, completing 77 years. Speaking over the phone, he shared a mix of personal reflections and political aspirations. “I’m getting older… standing at the edge of life,” he remarked with a sense of humility. “But the dream and the hope I hold within me remain as alive as ever. My belief is unwavering—Bangladesh will see the return of democracy. At this stage in my life, I hold on to this faith that most of the political crises and challenges we face can be resolved, and the nation will once again embrace democracy.”

The seasoned politician added that his health had not been in its best condition lately but was grateful to spend his birthday surrounded by his family in Dhaka. “This year, the whole family is together, which makes the day more meaningful,” he shared.

When asked about his feelings regarding his birthday, Fakhrul candidly said, “I don’t particularly celebrate birthdays. Having crossed 77 years, it feels like a long journey. Over these years, I have witnessed numerous changes, experienced countless events, and observed many lives that have inspired me. Through it all, I have found the meaning of living.”

He paused briefly and added, “Now it’s time to bid farewell… but there remains one hope, one aspiration—that Bangladesh will return to the path of democracy. The sacrifices made by the people of this country, the countless BNP leaders and activists who have endured repression under a fascist regime, the enforced disappearances, murders, and brutalities they have faced, are unparalleled and unprecedented.”

Tracing his journey, Mirza Fakhrul’s political career began during his student life. He served as the president of the East Pakistan Students Union’s Dhaka University branch and as the general secretary of SM Hall’s branch. Fakhrul graduated with a degree in economics from Dhaka University and went on to complete his master’s in the same field. Before delving into full-time politics, he worked as an economics teacher at Dhaka College and Dinajpur College.

Fakhrul’s entry into active politics began in 1986 when he resigned from government service. His journey through the labyrinth of politics began with local governance, winning the Thakurgaon municipal election in 1988 and becoming the chairman. Initially, Fakhrul was a member of the National Awami Party (NAP), led by the eminent political figure Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani. Under Bhashani’s guidance, Fakhrul navigated the twists and turns of political life, eventually joining the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), which had been founded by the late President and Liberation War proclaimer Ziaur Rahman.

During Ziaur Rahman’s presidency, Fakhrul served as the private secretary to then-Deputy Prime Minister SA Bari in 1979. His commitment to the BNP grew stronger over the years, and he gradually climbed the ranks within the party. In 1992, he was elected president of the BNP’s Thakurgaon district unit, later becoming a member of the party’s executive committee. His leadership skills and dedication to the party led to his appointment as Senior Joint Secretary General. In 2011, he became the acting Secretary General of the BNP, and in 2016, he was elected Secretary General at the party’s sixth national council.

Fakhrul also played a significant role in the BNP’s affiliated organizations. He was the first vice-president and later the president of the Jatiyatabadi Krishak Dal, the BNP’s farmers’ wing, where he worked to address issues affecting rural communities and agriculture. His influence extended to national politics when he was elected as a Member of Parliament for Thakurgaon-1 constituency twice. During the BNP government’s tenure from 2001 to 2006, he served as a State Minister under the leadership of then-Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia.

However, Fakhrul’s political journey was not without challenges. In the controversial 2018 national election, Fakhrul was elected as a Member of Parliament from the Bogura-6 constituency. However, he chose not to take the oath of office, leading to a by-election in which another BNP candidate, GM Siraj, secured the seat. Fakhrul’s decision not to join parliament reflected his protest against what he described as an election marred by irregularities and manipulation.

Reflecting on his experiences, Fakhrul highlighted the struggles faced by the BNP and its members. “The journey has been far from easy,” he said. “Our party has endured relentless persecution, from arbitrary arrests to enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings. Despite this, our commitment to restoring democracy has remained steadfast.”

Fakhrul’s life is deeply intertwined with his vision for a democratic Bangladesh. As a political leader, he has always advocated for the rights of the people, emphasizing the need for an inclusive and accountable government. His speeches often resonate with calls for unity, justice, and the restoration of democratic norms.

As he marked his 78th birthday, Fakhrul remained focused on the future. “I have seen much in my lifetime, and I have learned that the fight for democracy is never easy. But it is a fight worth pursuing. My hope is that the sacrifices made by so many will not be in vain and that Bangladesh will one day return to the path of democracy,” he said.

The birthday celebrations may have been subdued, but the day carried significant meaning for Fakhrul and his family. Surrounded by loved ones, he expressed gratitude for their unwavering support throughout his journey. “Family is my strength,” he said, acknowledging their role in sustaining him through the trials and triumphs of political life.

As the day ended, Mirza Fakhrul’s reflections echoed the aspirations of millions who yearn for a democratic Bangladesh. His words served as a reminder of the resilience and hope that define the nation’s struggle for justice and freedom. At 78, Fakhrul’s unwavering belief in the power of democracy continues to inspire those who share his vision for a brighter future.