Staff Reporter :
BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Saturday expressed optimism that the interim government would soon organize a national election that aligns with the aspirations of the people.
“We remain hopeful and are cooperating with the interim government. We believe an election will be held soon, reflecting the people’s will,” Fakhrul stated after paying tribute to the martyred intellectuals.
The BNP leader underscored the importance of a free, fair, and impartial election, ensuring that citizens can elect their representatives without interference.
He also highlighted the significance of the student-led July-August mass uprising, which he said opened a new chapter for rebuilding the nation.
“Seizing this opportunity, we aim to establish Bangladesh as a truly democratic and modern state, free from discrimination,” Fakhrul said.
Reflecting on the sacrifices of the intellectuals during the Liberation War, Fakhrul remarked, “Today, Martyred Intellectuals Day reminds us of the brutal killings of our nation’s brightest minds by the Pakistani occupying forces just before victory in 1971.”
He urged the public to commit to creating a self-reliant and democratic Bangladesh, fulfilling the vision of the martyred intellectuals and others who laid down their lives for independence.
The BNP Secretary General also mentioned that the party, along with Chairperson Khaleda Zia and Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, paid homage to the martyred intellectuals. “We pray for the eternal peace of their souls,” he added.
Earlier, Fakhrul, accompanied by senior BNP leaders, placed a wreath at the Martyred Intellectuals Memorial in Mirpur. To mark the day, BNP raised black flags and lowered the national flag to half-mast at all its offices, including the Nayapaltan central office.
Rizvi Criticizes Adviser Rizwana Hasan’s Remarks BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, speaking at the Martyred Intellectuals Memorial, criticized Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan’s comments on political reforms, describing them as “incorrect and misleading.”
Rizvi argued that her remarks reflected an attempt to undermine the role of politicians in shaping the country. “The statement made by the adviser on Friday regarding reforms is false. It is incorrect and creates confusion,” he stated.
He further noted that throughout history, significant reforms have been led by politicians. “Reforms, whether in Britain, America, or elsewhere, have been implemented by politicians, primarily through parliamentary processes,” Rizvi said.
He concluded by asserting that excessive criticism of reforms and the blaming of politicians reveal a lack of understanding of historical facts.
