BNP vows to restore democracy braving repression: Fakhrul

Zia’s 41st death anniversary observed

FE Team | Published: May 30, 2022 23:08:16

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has vowed to move forward braving what it said the government's intensified repression to subdue its opponents ahead of the next election, reports UNB.
The BNP leader came up with the remarks while talking to reporters after the secretary general along with party leaders and activists paid homage to party founder Ziaur Rahman by placing a wreath at his grave at Chandrima Udyan, marking his 41st death anniversary.
Fakhrul alleged the 'unelected' Awami League government has long been resorting to repression, killing, enforced disappearances and unleashing terror to hang onto power.
"We've been observing for some days that they're again establishing a reign of terror in the old style as the election is approaching. They have attacked our Chhatra Dal and our leaders and activists and their houses in different districts. We have taken a vow today that no fear and repressive acts can suppress us," the BNP leader said.
He said they will overcome all the barriers and repressions together with the people and remove the current 'terrible' regime from power in a democratic manner.
"We'll establish a government and parliament of people through a credible and impartial election under a neutral government," he said.
Zia, who founded Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in 1978, was assassinated by a group of disgruntled army officers at the erstwhile Chittagong circuit house on May 30, 1981.
Fakhrul ruled out the ruling party leaders' allegation that BNP is trying to create anarchy in the country ahead of the inauguration of Padma Bridge.
"They (AL leaders) are now making such comments to confuse people and divert their attention to a different direction," he said.
He said the country's people have started taking to the streets and sacrificing their blood on the streets for the restoration of democracy. "We hope people will get back democracy through this struggle."
Meanwhile, The 41st death anniversary of BNP founder and former president of the country Ziaur Rahman was observed with various programmes across the country on Monday.
Black flags were hoisted while party flags were lowered to half-mast atop the party's central offices and chairperson's Gulshan office at 6:00 am as part of its programme to mark the day.
Mirza Fakhrul and party standing committee members distributed food and clothes among the destitute at 70 points of the capital on the day.
Doctors Association of Bangladesh (DAB) arranged a free medical camp at party's Naya paltan central office from where poor people were provided with treatment and d medicines.
The party's all district, city and thana units also observed the day amid various programmes, including discussions and distribution of food among the poor.