THAKURGAON, Jan 25 (UNB): BNP Secretary General and Thakurgaon-1 candidate Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Sunday said their party's only goal is to restore democracy in Bangladesh.
"BNP is moving forward with that objective," he said while speaking at an election rally at the Barunagaon Dakhil Madrasah ground in Salandar Union of Thakurgaon Sadar Upazila.
Mirza Fakhrul said BNP leaders and activists have faced repression over the last 15 years.
"Many cases were filed against us. More than a hundred cases were filed against me alone. I was sent to jail 11 times and spent three and a half years there. By the grace of Allah, we did not leave the right path. Our only aim is to establish democracy in this country," he added.
He said around 7,500 cases were filed against BNP leaders and activists at Thakurgaon Sadar Police Station, but none of them gave up or joined the Awami League. "We stood by the truth, and because of that, we received relief after the July-August movement in 2024," he said.
Mirza Fakhrul also said people can now sleep peacefully at night. "Earlier, people were afraid of the police and had to sleep in open fields. Now our responsibility is to build a beautiful country and ensure better days ahead," he said.
Calling for restraint, he said the BNP does not believe in revenge. "Our leader, former BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, told us not to take revenge and not to spread violence. We want to build a new Bangladesh with love for all," he said, rejecting claims on social media that this approach meant compromise.
He said the BNP wants to create a society based on harmony and brotherhood and urged party leaders and activists not to engage in violence or file counter-cases.
Mirza Fakhrul said religion should not be used in politics, as it creates division. Referring to minority communities, including Hindus and Buddhists, he said ensuring peace and security for all citizens is a priority. Addressing members of the Hindu community, he said they often express concerns about safety regardless of who wins elections. "This situation must change. I urge you to be confident and courageous."
Fakhrul said if BNP comes to power, family cards will be issued to mothers to help them buy rice, pulses and flour at fair prices.
