No persecution over political beliefs

Bangladesh Parliament Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad has underscored the importance of establishing a framework that prevents individuals from facing harassment due to their political views.

Speaking after a meeting at Bhola Circuit House on Saturday afternoon, he stated that the primary responsibility of any political party is to strengthen the economy.

“The present government has already begun working toward that goal. We are optimistic that effective governance will be ensured in Bangladesh, irrespective of political divisions,” he added.

Hafiz, who was elected as the Bhola-3 representative in the general election, claimed that the country had been without true democratic practices for two decades.

Emphasizing that democracy is essential for progress in today’s world, he remarked, “We are fortunate that our citizens are democratic and politically conscious. They do not tolerate authoritarian rule.”

He further noted that people courageously resisted oppression, enforced disappearances, killings, and torture, ultimately reclaiming democracy-an achievement he described as a source of national pride.

Referring to global human rights concerns and the 2024 protests, Hafiz said that the people of Bangladesh secured their rights through collective action.

“Now, we are no longer subjected to the enforced disappearances, killings, and torture that our people suffered for a long time,” he said.