Independence Day observed in a different context after years of 'fascism': Fakhrul
He also remembered Khaleda Zia, describing her as a “freedom fighter” who, he said, had struggled for independence and democracy throughout her life
Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said this year's Independence Day is being observed in a "completely different context," noting that democracy had been "destroyed" in Bangladesh during what he described as 15-16 years of fascist rule.
"Independence itself had come under threat. The BNP, along with the people, carried out movements and struggles. Nearly six million people faced false cases, around 20,000 leaders and activists were killed, and about 1,700 were disappeared," he said.
The BNP secretary general made the remarks after paying tribute at the graves of late president Ziaur Rahman and former prime minister Khaleda Zia at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar around 7am today (26 March).
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He also expressed optimism about Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's leadership, saying the party believes a "democratic, prosperous and happy Bangladesh" can be built under his leadership.
"People across the country are hopeful and confident about Tarique Rahman. Under his leadership, Bangladesh will become a democratic and prosperous nation," Fakhrul said.
He said people continued their movement despite repression, culminating in a mass uprising led by students and people in July 2024, which, he said, created an opportunity to re-establish a democratic system.
Fakhrul further said Tarique Rahman, who had led the party from exile for over 15 years, is now working to rebuild the country with "new ideas" following the formation of the government.
Highlighting policy initiatives, he mentioned proposals such as a "family card" programme, monthly allowances for imams, muazzins and other religious leaders, canal excavation projects, interest waivers of up to Tk10,000 for marginal farmers, and the introduction of a "farmers card."
At the beginning of his remarks, Fakhrul paid tribute to the proclaimer of independence, who inspired the nation to join the Liberation War, and honoured the martyrs and those who suffered during the war.
He also remembered Khaleda Zia, describing her as a "freedom fighter" who, he said, had struggled for independence and democracy throughout her life.
Earlier, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman placed wreaths at the graves of Ziaur Rahman and Khaleda Zia. Later, as party chairman, he, along with Fakhrul and senior leaders paid further tributes.
