‘Democracy key to dev’

Speaker Major (retd) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed has said that neither national prosperity nor true development is possible without a strong democratic system in Bangladesh.

He made the remarks while speaking to reporters at the Barishal Circuit House on Wednesday (April 16).

The Speaker said that economic progress can only be achieved through the establishment of a “firm and solid” democratic system, adding that a parliament formed through free and fair elections would help move the country forward.

“Freedom of the country and its prosperity are quite impossible without democracy,” he said, stressing that people’s growing interest in politics is a positive sign for the nation.

Hafiz Uddin noted that political awareness among citizens had historically played a key role in Bangladesh’s independence. He added that during periods of authoritarian rule, it is students and young people who take to the streets to restore democracy.

Referring to recent years, he said public participation in movements against authoritarianism marked a “glorious chapter” in the country’s history.

The Speaker expressed hope that democratic institutions in Bangladesh would be further strengthened, enabling sustained economic growth through a stable political system.

Earlier, on his arrival at the Barishal Circuit House, Hafiz Uddin Ahmed was given a guard of honour. Later, he left for his home district Bhola.