Some now contesting polls with BNP once spoke in favour of 1/11: Khasru

Some political parties and individuals who are now contesting the polls alongside the BNP had previously spoken in favour of the 1/11 political changeover, BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury said today (7 January).

"[The late] Khaleda Zia remained firm throughout. Those who fled made compromises. Even some who are contesting elections alongside us today had spoken in favour of 1/11 and played supportive roles at that time," Khasru said at a meeting organised by Zia Parishad at the Kazi Nazrul Islam auditorium of the National Press Club, held in memory of the former three-time prime minister.

"Khaleda Zia alone did not make any compromises. From the beginning of authoritarian rule to its downfall, she stood her ground, even at the risk of her life," he added.

"The torch of democracy that Ziaur Rahman carried was borne for a long time by Khaleda Zia. She has now handed over that torch to Tarique Rahman. Tarique Rahman is now the torchbearer of democracy," Khasru also said.

He added, "He has been able to unite the entire nation to free it from fascism. Tarique Rahman is the torchbearer of democracy for our future. What we must do now is uphold high standards and bring discipline to the nation."

Referring to the massive turnout at Khaleda Zia's funeral, Khasru said, "Millions of people attended her janaza out of love. I am not aware of such a large funeral anywhere else in the world. Zia held a special place in the hearts of the people of Bangladesh, and we must preserve that legacy."