NN Online:
BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Sunday urged all political forces to remain united despite ideological differences, reaffirming the BNP’s vision of building a pluralistic “rainbow state” in the aftermath of the July mass uprising.
“Politics is never an easy journey—it’s not a bed of roses,” Fakhrul said at a tree-planting event held in memory of those killed during the 2024 uprising. “One martyr’s father expressed his disappointment, saying he had hoped the political situation would stabilise quickly. But the road to a new Bangladesh is filled with challenges.”
The event, titled ‘The Mass Uprising 2024 – National Unity and Democratic Journey – Evergreen Memories’, was jointly organised by Jatiyatabadi Krishak Dal and ‘Amra BNP Poribar’ at the grave of BNP founder and former President Ziaur Rahman in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar.
Fakhrul said differences of opinion are a natural part of politics. “Some may believe in democracy, some in socialism, others in a welfare state—but we believe all these ideas can coexist. Just as a rainbow emerges from many colours, we want to build a rainbow state, a vision first articulated by our leader Begum Khaleda Zia,” he said.
Highlighting BNP’s reform initiatives, Fakhrul noted that Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman had introduced a 31-point reform plan in 2022, which is now forming the basis of ongoing national discussions.
As part of a nationwide campaign to plant 10 lakh trees, Fakhrul personally planted two neem saplings at Zia Udyan in memory of Shaheed Saikat and Shaheed Abu Sayed.
He chose not to dwell on the number of lives lost or the sacrifices made by BNP leaders and activists, saying, “Our duty is not to compete in martyrdom but to carry their ideals forward. They laid down their lives to topple fascism and to create a democratic Bangladesh.”
Fakhrul reiterated BNP’s commitment to a liberal democratic future where citizens can live freely and peacefully. “This is the dream of our martyrs, and our Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman is leading us toward realising it.”
He also expressed optimism about the interim government’s pledge to hold elections by mid-February. “We hope this promise will be honoured. Through that election, we aim to form a people’s government that will uphold the sacrifices of our martyrs and lay the foundation for a truly democratic Bangladesh,” he said.
