BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir emphasized that there is no alternative to democracy, and institutionalizing it requires elections. He made these remarks on Sunday during the inauguration of the Zia Memorial Football Tournament, organized by the BNP in Thakurgaon’s Boromath.

He highlighted the need for good governance across all sectors, including sports and culture, stating that elections are the only path to move the future generation forward. Reflecting on the challenges of the past, he noted that the country has endured a difficult time for the last 15 years, which has significantly damaged institutions and even sports fields. Speaking personally, he said the local field holds sentimental value for him.

Mirza Fakhrul also praised the younger generation for their efforts to pave the way for a new Bangladesh. He urged for transformation not only in politics but also in sports, culture, education, and social life, envisioning a brighter future.

Sharing his fondness for football, he mentioned being a fan of players like Aminul and Sabbir, recalling the large crowds they once attracted. However, he lamented the decline in football’s popularity and called for efforts to restore its prominence, describing it as the game of the people. Mirza Fakhrul acknowledged Aminul Haque’s initiative to organize football tournaments across the country, thanking BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman for his guidance and leadership in this effort.

The event was attended by Aminul Haque, former footballer Sabbir, and Thakurgaon BNP’s General Secretary Mirza Faisal Amin. The tournament involves football teams from eight districts of Rangpur division. The opening match saw Dinajpur BNP defeat Panchagarh BNP in a tiebreaker. The event also included a cultural performance by local artists, and the tournament’s final is scheduled for February 27.