\\\'Sheikh Mujibur Rahman had a contribution\\\'

BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia has recognised Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s role in Bangladesh’s independence. ‘Families are respected because (Sheikh) Mujibur Rahman had a contribution, Ziaur Rahman had a contribution. From there, people have faith in them,’ the former prime minister told the ‘Indian Express’ in an interview published on Tuesday. Seeking to explain in her ‘Indian Express’ interview why the two families had largely controlled the politics in Bangladesh, Khaleda said: ‘Look, this is not just about politics — a barrister’s son becomes a barrister, a doctor’s son becomes a doctor, a businessman’s son becomes a businessman. So, politicians generate that interest in their family members. And then, it comes to the people — whom do they accept, that is the key. If they don’t accept, they will be out.’ Asked what would be different between India and Bangladesh if she ran the show and not Shiekh Hasina, Khaleda said: ‘Unlike the Awami League government, I would have sought mutuality of gains in our bilateral relations in all areas, along with using provisions under SAARC to foster closer ties. I would have emphasised that it is vital to earn the trust of the people on both sides to give this relationship greater strength,’ according to bdnews24.com.