Staff Reporter :
BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Saturday expressed cautious optimism about Bangladesh’s future, citing the leadership of interim government head Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus as a positive development amid ongoing political challenges.
“We are indeed facing political difficulties, but I am confident that these issues will be resolved. In fact, we have already made significant progress,” he said during a discussion in the capital. “I extend my gratitude to Professor Dr Yunus for stepping up to lead the nation.
I firmly believe in his ability to bring about meaningful change. Let us support him, support one another, and collectively move the country forward.”
Fakhrul was speaking at an event titled ‘Ambassador Sirajul Islam’s Vision of Empowering Bangladesh: Leadership, Unity and Growth, Diplomacy and Governance for the Country’s Transformation’, jointly organised by Empowerment Bangladesh and the Department of History and Philosophy at North South University.
Addressing the audience, the BNP leader acknowledged the growing public frustration, referencing sentiments expressed in media and political discourse. “There is visible frustration among the people. You can see it on TV talk shows and hear it from scholars and political commentators,” he noted.
He emphasised the need for self-reliance and unity, stating, “Donald Trump from America, Xi Jinping from China, or Narendra Modi from India will not come to bring change. It is we who must take the initiative. As we stood united during the great Liberation War, and again during the 2024 student protests, we must now come together once more.”
Reflecting on Bangladesh’s journey since independence, Fakhrul highlighted improvements in food security. “In 1971, our population was 70 million with a food deficit of 2.8 million metric tonnes. Today, with a population of 180 million, that shortage has been addressed thanks to the dedication of our farmers and agricultural scientists.”
He also raised concerns about economic headwinds, particularly the potential impact of increased tariffs from the United States. “The US tariff issue is troubling. If not resolved swiftly, it could lead to further economic difficulties.”
Fakhrul concluded by urging inclusive thinking and a people-focused approach to national development. “The woman earning Tk15,000 a month, the rural labourers – they are contributing to the economy. If we fail to consider their welfare, the country cannot progress. If we do think about them, the nation will certainly move forward.”
“There will always be problems, but there are solutions too. Dr Yunus has accepted a great responsibility and is trying his best. I thank him and hope he succeeds. Let us help ourselves to help the nation,” he added.
