BNP leader Nazrul terms surge in millionaires 'alarming'

BNP senior leader Nazrul Islam Khan today (5 November) said the rapid rise in the number of millionaires in Bangladesh compared to many other countries in recent years is "alarming."

"The number of millionaires in Bangladesh has increased at a staggering rate, even faster than in many other countries. This is truly alarming," he said while speaking at a discussion.

In contrast, the BNP leader said millions of people in Bangladesh have become poorer during the same period. "This so‑called development is actually unequal development. A few are getting richer while the majority of people are getting poorer. That cannot be called development for all."

Nazrul, a BNP standing committee member, recalled that their party founder and late president Ziaur Rahman followed a policy of inclusive development.

"Shaheed Zia wanted development for everyone. That's why he worked to create employment both at home and abroad, and established industries that could generate jobs so that people from all walks of life could take part in the country's economic progress," he observed.

Jatiyatabadi Sramik Dal arranged the programme at the Institution of Diploma Engineers, Bangladesh, marking National Revolution and Solidarity Day commemorating the civil‑military uprising on 7 November 1975.

Nazrul said development should benefit all citizens, not just a privileged few, as envisioned by their party founder.

"Ziaur Rahman promoted industries that could employ large numbers of people and expanded agricultural production alongside industrial growth. He also took steps to develop small and cottage industries, marine fisheries and export facilities by setting up dedicated institutions," the BNP leader said.

He alleged that the opportunities once created for rural people have now been disrupted in various ways, unsettling the country's true path of development and progress.

Nazrul said attempts have also been made to undermine the legacy of Ziaur Rahman, but those efforts have failed.

Referring to the coming national election, the BNP leader urged party supporters to unite and work together to ensure the victory of BNP candidates.

"We must remember that opportunities don't come again and again. If we truly believe that Ziaur Rahman and the BNP worked for inclusive and lasting development, then we must work together so that our candidates carrying the paddy sheaf symbol win in the next election," he said.

Nazrul said BNP's announced 31‑point programme highlights issues concerning people from every section of society, giving special attention to workers.

He said if BNP can bring people together in support of the planned change outlined in the 31‑point, it will be possible to fulfil many of the aspirations initiated by late president Ziaur Rahman.