BNP wants to build 'rainbow nation' in line with Khaleda Zia’s vision: Khasru
He said BNP believes in liberal democracy, where religion remains a personal matter, and the state belongs to everyone equally
The BNP wants to build a "rainbow nation," reflecting the vision of former prime minister Khaleda Zia, where people of all faiths and identities can live with equal rights, the party's Standing Committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury said today (2 January).
Amir Khasru said Khaleda Zia had clearly articulated BNP's vision for the country, describing Bangladesh as a rainbow nation. "A rainbow is formed by all colours together. That is the Bangladesh Khaleda Zia wanted to see," he added.
The BNP leader made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at the "National Anitya Sabha and Remembrance" programme of Dr Gyanashree Mahathero, the country's highest Buddhist cleric, held at Parade Ground in Chattogram city today.
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Before the event, Amir Khasru paid floral tributes to the late cleric on behalf of BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman.
He said BNP believes in liberal democracy, where religion remains a personal matter, and the state belongs to everyone equally.
"In the rainbow nation, everyone will follow their own religion, but the country will belong to all. We want to uphold that belief and see a stable, peaceful Bangladesh," he said.
Referring to the country's political and social challenges, he said Bangladesh has gone through prolonged unrest. "Going forward, we want to build a country together where every person's rights as a Bangladeshi will be ensured," he added.
Amir Khasru said there would be no scope for discrimination in the future Bangladesh BNP envisions.
"We are moving forward with that commitment. Khaleda Zia, a towering national leader, is no longer with us, but we will carry her ideals throughout our lives," he said.
He also said that, in line with the philosophy of Dr Gyanashree Mahathero, Bangladesh should remain united beyond divisions of religion, caste, or ethnicity.
Following day-long religious rituals, the body of Dr Gyanashree Mahathero was taken to Binajuri Cremation Monastery in Raozan in the evening.
The revered Buddhist cleric and Ekushey Padak-winning social worker passed away on 13 November while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Chattogram.
