Political Arena: Disunity could lead to further fascism: Tarique
Staff Reporter :
BNP’s acting chairperson Tarique Rahman has warned that failure to build unity among democratic forces might open the door to what he termed “pseudo-fascism” in the days ahead.
“Without unity-without an alliance of democratic voices-just as dictatorship once gained ground through the 2008 so-called election and the 1/11 episode, we may again face a rise of pseudo-fascism,” Tarique said in a virtual address as chief guest at the Cumilla South BNP conference held at Cumilla Town Hall on Saturday.
“Our guiding principle must be the will of the people. The message is simple: Bangladesh comes first.
That is our starting point and our ultimate goal,” he declared. Tarique stressed that it is no longer the time for words alone: “The age of speeches is over.
Now is the time to work. Let the slogan of this conference be-unity, the people, and reorganisation.”
Recalling the sacrifices of BNP leaders and activists, he said, “Our comrades have marched in their thousands, endured jail, faced enforced disappearances, and resisted dictatorships. We must now move forward together.
This is the time to act as one, to build a better homeland, and to bring BNP’s message to every citizen.”
He further urged grassroots mobilisation: “Conferences alone will not bring change. We must knock on every door, stand beside ordinary people, and carry our message into every household.”
Salauddin: Resist misuse of religion, embrace reform.
BNP Standing Committee member Salauddin Ahmed, who delivered the keynote speech, said: “We have long awaited this day. After 16 years, it has finally arrived. But joy must not make us forget the past.”
He alleged that the debt incurred during what he called “the fascist era” could have funded 40 Padma Bridges. “The Awami League’s history is one of plunder,” he charged.
Citing the 2024 July Uprising, Salauddin reminded the audience that “1,400 lives were lost, helicopters opened fire on crowds, and 20,000 people were crippled.” He said the memory of that massacre must remain alive in the struggle for reform and justice.
“People have suffered exploitation and tyranny. Their voices are rising against it. Justice will come, though it will be a long and difficult road,” he added, emphasising that elections cannot be put off any longer.
Referring to BNP’s reform agenda, he asked: “Those who talk about reform today-are they aware of Vision 2030 or our 31-point programme? These 31 points are a landmark in our politics. If anyone brings forward ideas beyond these, we are open to them-but nothing less.”
He also underscored the BNP’s reformist legacy: “Our history is the history of reform. And let me be clear-Islam is not a political quota. Those who seek to exploit religion for political gain must be defeated through the ballot box.”