BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has posed a stern question to the electorate, asking whether they are prepared to ruin the country by voting for those who do not believe in the nation’s independence.
“Should we ruin the country by voting for a party that does not believe in our land or our independence?” the veteran leader asked while addressing an election rally at the BD School ground in the 29 Mile area of Thakurgaon Sadar on Monday (January 26).
Critique of Anti-Liberation Forces
Mirza Fakhrul pointed out that those who collaborated with the Pakistani forces in 1971 and were involved in the genocide of thousands are now seeking votes and claiming the right to govern. He warned the public about the dangers of returning such forces to power, suggesting it would undermine the very foundations of the state.
Message to the Hindu Community
Addressing the Hindu community directly, the BNP leader urged them not to live in fear. Noting their silence, he questioned:
“Why the fear? Because you are a minority? I want to make it clear—you are not minorities. Our late leader Begum Khaleda Zia explicitly stated that there are no minorities in this country; everyone is a Bangladeshi citizen with equal rights.”
He assured the community that BNP members would stand by them and protect their rights, promising that the party remains committed to the safety of all citizens, regardless of their religious identity.
The Absence of the ‘Boat’
Reflecting on the changing political landscape, Mirza Fakhrul noted that the traditional competition between the ‘Boat’ (Awami League) and the ‘Sheaf of Paddy’ (BNP) has changed.
- The Sheikh Hasina Factor: He remarked that former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has left the country and is currently in Delhi, leaving her followers in a difficult position.
- New Symbols: He mentioned that while a democratic system might have continued had she stayed, voters are now faced with new electoral symbols.
A Final Political Stand
The BNP Secretary General also touched upon his own political journey, confirming that this would be his final election.
- Politics for Welfare: “We do not view politics as a business. We do it for the welfare of the people,” he stated.
- Support for New Leadership: He introduced a younger candidate, Delowar, describing him as a “good boy” and urging the public to give new leadership a chance to work for the community.
“We believe in work, not just flowery words,” Mirza Fakhrul concluded, seeking a final opportunity from the people of his constituency to serve them.
