Mirza Fakhrul Calls Upcoming National Election a ‘Tough Test’ for the Country’s Future

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has described the upcoming national election as a “critical test” that will determine the country’s future. He said the election will decide whether Bangladesh remains in the hands of liberal democracy or falls under extremists and anti-state forces.

Speaking at a discussion held at the Institution of Diploma Engineers Bangladesh auditorium in Kakrail, Dhaka, Fakhrul made these remarks during an event commemorating the 90th birth anniversary of BNP founder and former President Ziaur Rahman.

Fakhrul emphasized, “This election will determine whether our country is guided by liberal democracy or dominated by extremist, anti-state elements.”

He also alleged that there is a deliberate misinformation campaign surrounding the election. “It’s completely planned,” he added.

Claiming confidence in BNP’s prospects, Fakhrul stated that the party is set for a “landslide victory” if the elections are held. He added that through the electoral process, the party hopes to restore democratic governance and address national challenges, ultimately building a renewed Bangladesh. Fakhrul highlighted BNP’s previous efforts, including the 2016 Vision 2030 plan initiated by Khaleda Zia and the 32-point reform framework proposed by BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman after consultations with other parties.

On the topic of reforms, Fakhrul said, “The reforms that some government supporters now question were first introduced by BNP in 2022. These are our initiatives. I stand fully behind them.”

He also criticized certain political forces for intentionally creating confusion, stating, “Some have misrepresented matters by including issues we didn’t agree with, yet we accepted them for the greater good of the country.”

Fakhrul addressed concerns over religion, politics, and national history. He accused groups that once opposed Bangladesh’s independence of now misusing religion to mislead people, claiming that voting a certain way could guarantee entry to heaven. “Our stance is clear—we believe in religion. Our leader, President Ziaur Rahman, included Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim in the first constitution and emphasized unwavering faith in Allah,” he said.

Regarding uncertainty around the election, Fakhrul said, “With 23 days remaining, some are already claiming the election won’t happen. But let it proceed—we’ll see who gets the votes.” He stressed that BNP will accept the will of the people, whether in government or opposition.

Fakhrul urged citizens to choose the path of liberalism, democracy, and public welfare, emphasizing the election as a decisive test for the nation’s future.

Other BNP leaders who spoke at the event included Standing Committee members Mirza Abbas, Abdul Moin Khan, Nazrul Islam Khan, and Selima Rahman.