Staff Reporter :
BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Monday cautioned that various conspiracies are being orchestrated to destabilize the country’s democratic order.
“There is no alternative to democracy. We resisted dictatorship because it lacked accountability. Only democracy can establish accountability in society, in the country, and within the state,” he said while addressing a virtual discussion titled ‘Plan to Build Bangladesh’ at the Krishibid Institute auditorium in Khamarbari.
Tarique urged leaders and activists of Chhatra Dal to convey the BNP’s future plans to the public in simple and accessible language.
Pointing to the July-August mass uprising, he said that the true driving force behind the 5 August movement was the ordinary people-housewives, small shopkeepers, rickshaw-pullers, van and CNG drivers, bus helpers, and students from schools, colleges, madrasas and universities, including even young children. He noted that 63 children lost their lives during the movement.
Stressing the need for accountability in government, Tarique Rahman said that genuine change can only begin when those in positions of authority are held answerable. “In a multi-party democracy, people have the right to different viewpoints. The idea that ‘one is good and everyone else is bad’ is unacceptable and dangerous for democracy,” he said.
Addressing the youth, he warned, “If you take the lead, this country will endure. If you do not, the consequences will be dire.”
He also praised the students, leaders, and activists of Chhatra Dal for dedicating the prime years of their lives to the struggle against oppression.
