Signs of famine can be seen amid economic crisis: Rizvi

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has expressed concern over what he describes as the country's worsening economic crisis, warning that signs of an impending famine by September or October could be seen.

He made these remarks today (11 July) during a programme in front of the BNP central office in Naya Paltan. The event was organised by the Zia Parishad to pray for the recovery of its president and BNP Chairperson's adviser Abdul Kuddus.

Commenting on the BNP's long-standing struggle, Rizvi said, "We are fighting for greater ideals—human dignity, equality, justice, and the rule of law. This is a fight for restoring the people's ownership of the country, which has been hijacked. Denying people their ownership nurtures a dangerous kind of fascism."

He further added, "When a government is truly elected by the people, it remains accountable at every step. The interim government is supported by the people. Except for the Awami League and a few of its allies, the entire country supports a change. We all stand behind Dr Muhammad Yunus, but if signs of famine begin to appear or be heard, the people won't forgive us."

Rizvi highlighted the fragile state of the garment sector saying, "Numerous garment factories are shutting down. People are losing their jobs. If people can't afford food, the symptoms of famine will appear—and when that happens, no one will be spared. The fascists will only clap in applause while the people suffer."

He also clarified the BNP's stance on reforms and said, "The BNP never opposed reforms. In fact, many of the reform agendas being discussed are already reflected in our 31-point proposal. The BNP has adopted many aspects of the July declarations as well."

Among others present at the event were BNP Joint Secretary General Advocate Abdus Salam Azad, Volunteer Affairs Secretary Mir Sarafat Ali Sapu, Zia Parishad Senior Vice President Dr. Shafiqul Islam, and Secretary General Dr. Emtaz Hossain.