Fascists must not be allowed to destroy nation’s culture: Rizvi

The nation's rich cultural traditions will remain strong and unbroken as fascism will not be allowed to destroy the cultural heritage, pride, and achievements, Senior Joint Secretary General of BNP Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said today (13 April).

"We must not let fascism erase our cultural heritage, pride, and achievements. Like the Padma and Meghna rivers, our rich traditions will continue to flow strong and unbroken," he said while visiting the remnants of the burnt fascist imagery at the Faculty of Fine Arts, Dhaka University.

Rizvi said the teachers and students, who have fought for democracy, might have differences of opinion, but fascism should not gain root again in their activities and attitude. 

"There might have differences of opinion among us, but we are ready to make any sacrifice to protect the freedom of speech of others," he added.

"Reform of the state is not a permanent settlement. It's an ongoing process and as much as possible should be done now, and the elected government will do the rest," he noted.

Rizvi called upon the interim government to implement necessary reforms and hold the election quickly to materialise the people aspiration achieved on 5 August 2024.

"Our long-standing hope is to establish the voting rights of the people. So, we want to see democracy truly established in the country," he said. 

In order to achieve democracy, he said, many BNP leaders and activists, including Ilias Ali and Sumon have lost their lives and many were disappeared.

Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said that for the past 15 years, humanity and justice remained absent in the country as Sheikh Hasina devastated the entire nation, making the judiciary a branch of the Awami League. 

He emphasised that collective effort is now essential to rebuild the country from this dire state.

Highlighting the urgency of restoring democracy, the BNP senior joint secretary general said, "Democracy is the foundation for flourishing art, literature, culture, and civil discourse. Where democracy exists, no one dares to commit acts of arson or destruction." 

He denounced the attack of fascism on the Faculty of Fine Arts at Dhaka University saying it's an ugly manifestation of fascist's assault. At the same time, he praised the students and teachers for their dedication and great work to make the effigy of the fascist.

BNP Joint Secretary General Abdus Salam, Mir Sharafat Ali Sapu, Shamimur Rahman Shami, Dr Zahidul Kabir were present, among others.