Our Nazrul is Tarique Rahman: Chief Whip Moni

Chief Whip of Parliament Nurul Islam Moni today (24 August) likened BNP Chairman and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam, saying that Nazrul lives on through his works.

"Nazrul lives among us through his creations. We search for Nazrul in every home and across the country. We also have a Nazrul. We may not see him, but if we fail to recognise him, we will suffer. Our Nazrul is Tarique Rahman," he said.

Moni made the remarks while addressing a discussion organised by the Jatiyatabadi Sangskritik Dal at the National Press Club this morning (24 August) to mark the 50th death anniversary of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam.

He said Tarique Rahman assumed power only six months ago when the country was facing a difficult domestic and global situation.

"Within a few days of Tarique Rahman coming to power, war broke out between Iran and America. Oil prices increased overnight in 85 countries. Our Nazrul did not increase the price of oil," Moni added.

Referring to long queues at petrol stations, he said, "The queues at petrol pumps became longer and then disappeared, and the difference was only three days. Did the oil fall from the sky within three days? We have to understand. The oil was already here. Some people create problems in society."

Speaking about the electricity crisis, Moni questioned what benefit Tarique Rahman would gain from people suffering due to power shortages.

"Everyone here is suffering from the electricity problem. What benefit does Tarique Rahman get from it? Does Tarique Rahman benefit from it?" he asked.

He urged people to assess whether the government was making sincere efforts to address the problems and identify those responsible for creating difficulties.

Moni also criticised what he described as double standards among some people protesting against power shortages.

"Some people become impatient and take to the streets saying there is no electricity. Some will sit in front with lanterns. But if you look behind them, the fan is turning, while there is a lantern in front. Double standard!" he said.

He alleged that some people were deliberately creating such situations and urged journalists as well as BNP leaders and activists to play responsible roles.

The chief whip also urged people not to expect Tarique Rahman to solve every problem within a few days.

"Do not expect Tarique Rahman to solve all problems in seven days. Explain this to those who expect it. Explain this to those who make big speeches," he said.

Moni again described Tarique Rahman as "our Nazrul", saying such a figure does not emerge in every generation.

He claimed Tarique Rahman had provided funds to develop industries, create opportunities for young people and enhance their skills.

"There is no sector in villages and towns where Nazrul has not extended his hand," he said.

He said Bangladesh was fortunate to have such a compassionate person.

"Such a Nazrul will not be born again. If we lose this Nazrul, Bangladesh will not get another Nazrul," he said.

Moni also compared Tarique Rahman with BNP founder Ziaur Rahman, saying Ziaur Rahman had also been "a Nazrul".

"After that Nazrul left, we were oppressed by authoritarianism for a long time. If this Nazrul leaves again, I do not know whether we will ever return from this oppression," he said.

Moni concluded by calling for unity, saying, "We will all stay together, InshaAllah. We will listen to the flute of this Nazrul."