Staff Reporter :
BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, speaking at an event at the Thakurgaon Press Club on September 19, voiced concerns over the recent decision to grant magistracy power to the army.
He warned that this decision could create new issues, indicating the failure of other institutions to effectively carry out their responsibilities.
Fakhrul said, “The army has been given magistracy power.
This is a worrying development, as it signals the administration’s inability to maintain law and order. It also shows that other institutions are not functioning properly.”
He emphasized that the army should only be given such authority in areas that are completely “out of control.”
He further stated that granting the army magistracy power in peaceful areas, where political leaders are already managing the situation, would be inappropriate and counterproductive. “It would not be a wise move,” Fakhrul remarked.
Urging the interim government to reconsider the decision, he said, “The government must avoid steps that could backfire and negatively impact both the political situation and the welfare of the people.”
During the programme, Fakhrul also met with the families of those killed and injured during the student-led anti-discrimination movement in Thakurgaon and provided them with financial assistance.
He reiterated the BNP’s call for the interim government to eliminate barriers and create an environment for a fair and inclusive democratic election.
“A truly democratic state means having an elected government and a functioning parliament.
I urge the interim government to ensure that we can achieve this,” Fakhrul stated. Fakhrul added that resolving the country’s political crisis requires allowing politicians to fulfill their duties.
He explained that the interim government, led by Dr. Muhammad Yunus, was established after the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s regime, and is working to bring to justice the crimes committed during her administration.
“Sheikh Hasina was the main architect behind these crimes, and thousands of lives were lost under her orders,” he said, pointing out that the oppression under her regime began as early as 2012.
Fakhrul claimed that over 700 BNP members were forcibly disappeared, and several thousand party leaders and activists were killed. He expressed his party’s desire for reforms, stating that they seek an end to injustice and oppression.
“There should be no more shootings and killings of children. I urge the government to create a list of those injured during the anti-discrimination movement and ensure proper medical treatment,” Fakhrul appealed, becoming emotional as he spoke about the victims of the movement.
He recounted the tragic stories of students who were injured or killed during the protests, stating that many parents lost their children without understanding why. “This is truly heartbreaking for me,” he lamented.
Fakhrul also noted the economic losses suffered under the Awami League government, with countless people losing their businesses, land, and jobs.
“The new interim government must recognise these issues and make the right decisions,” Fakhrul concluded.
“For the past 15 to 16 years, we have sacrificed and struggled to remove the fascist Hasina government.”