No one to escape consequences if fascism returns: Rizvi

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi today (1 June) warned that no one will escape the consequences if fascism re-emerges in the country through any loophole.

He made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a food distribution programme organised by the central committee of Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Rickshaw, Van and Auto Drivers' Dal at BNP's Nayapaltan central office, marking the 45th death anniversary of party founder and former president Ziaur Rahman.

"If fascism rises its head again through any loophole, it will put us in danger, and none of you will be escape the consequences either," said Rizvi, also prime minister's political adviser.

He said the country's independence and sovereignty will be at risk and democracy will be buried if such a situation emerges, urging all to remain alert.

Pointing to Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami leaders, the BNP leader said they are talking about forgiving Awami League. "You joined hands with them in movements against BNP in 1994, 1995 and 1996. What was the consequence? Your leaders were executed. The consequences of such misplaced affection were devastating," he said.

Describing BNP as a party committed to creating employment rather than unemployment, he said the party, from the time of Ziaur Rahman until now, has always worked to generate jobs.

"Under the leadership of BNP Chairman and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, no one in the country will remain unemployed in the future," Rizvi said.

He said employment opportunities will expand through various initiatives.

The BNP leader described Ziaur Rahman as the pioneer of overseas employment and the garment industry in Bangladesh.

He further said Ziaur Rahman had excavated around 1,600 miles of canals across the country to address water shortages during the dry season and counter water-related challenges from neighbouring countries. "As a result, agricultural and food production increased."

Highlighting Tarique Rahman's welfare-oriented politics, Rizvi said the previous government had ignored the concerns of hawkers, whereas the current government believes rehabilitation must come before eviction.

Referring to the proposed Padma Barrage project, he said the prime minister had not bowed to any dominant foreign power, noting that the project will help ensure water security and generate electricity.

"If implemented, the barrage will produce 113 megawatts of electricity. At the same time, rivers will be revived, creating a revolution in fisheries and agriculture. It is a patriotic project," the BNP senior joint secretary general said.

Expressing concern over what he described as the spread of "mob culture", he alleged that anti-social trends were being promoted in the name of civil liberties.

He also alleged that conspiracies are being hatched against the government.

Among others, Dhaka South City Corporation Administrator Abdus Salam and Jatiyatabadi Tanti Dal Convener Abul Kalam Azad addressed the programme.