A Pledge to Defy Conspiracies, At Home and Abroad
PRIME Minister and BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman’s pledge to resist any conspiracy against Bangladesh, whether originating at home or abroad, has brought the questions of national sovereignty, political stability and democratic unity back into the national discourse.
Speaking at the inauguration of a sovereignty procession at Nayapaltan in Dhaka on November 7, marking National Revolution and Solidarity Day, he invoked the spirit of November 7, 1975, and called upon party leaders and activists to give a fitting response to any attempt to undermine the country’s independence and sovereignty. His call received enthusiastic support from those present.
The Prime Minister’s remarks deserve attention beyond the immediate political context. Bangladesh has a long history of political upheavals, struggles for democracy and competing political interests.
The Liberation War of 1971, the events of November 7, 1975, the mass movement against autocracy in 1990 and the popular uprising of August 2024 represent different but significant chapters in the country’s political journey.
These experiences demonstrate that national sovereignty and people’s democratic rights cannot be secured without public participation and political accountability.
However, the question is not simply whether the nation can resist conspiracies. It is equally important to establish the political, economic and institutional conditions that make the country less vulnerable to internal and external interference.
Political instability, weak institutions, corruption, economic dependence and social divisions can undermine national sovereignty more effectively than external pressure alone.
The government’s responsibility, therefore, extends beyond making strong political declarations.
It must ensure the rule of law, strengthen democratic institutions, protect freedom of expression and guarantee the independence of constitutional bodies.
Equally important is maintaining a political environment in which opposition parties can operate freely and disagreements can be resolved through democratic processes.
Bangladesh also needs a balanced and independent foreign policy. Relations with neighbouring countries and international partners should be guided by mutual respect, equality and national interest rather than political pressure or excessive dependence.
The Prime Minister’s appeal for unity should thus extend beyond his party’s supporters to include all political parties, professional groups, civil society and citizens.
National sovereignty is not the property of any political party; it is the collective responsibility of the entire nation.
Ultimately, the best answer to any conspiracy is a democratic, economically resilient and institutionally strong Bangladesh.
The pledge made on November 7 will have lasting significance only when it is translated into responsible governance, national unity and respect for the people’s rights.