Tarique: AL undermines democracy, shattering the aspirations of martyred intellectuals

Accusing the Awami League of undermining democracy and betraying the aspirations of the martyred intellectuals, BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman emphasized the importance of establishing the rule of law, an independent judiciary, and a pluralistic political system in the country. 

He alleged that shortly after independence, the Awami League revealed its true intentions by stripping citizens of their democratic rights, drawing parallels to the actions of the Pakistani occupational forces. According to Tarique, this marked the beginning of efforts to erode the nation's independence and sovereignty, ultimately dismantling the democratic ideals envisioned by the martyred intellectuals.

In his speech on Martyred Intellectuals Day, Tarique accused the Awami League’s successors of continuing a legacy of authoritarianism by engaging in enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and other acts aimed at obstructing the nation's unity and progress. He further claimed that instead of fostering democratic growth and economic prosperity, the Awami League instituted a one-party rule.

“Amid the shifting political landscape, we must unite to practice genuine democracy and restore the rule of law, an independent judiciary, and a pluralistic political culture, inspired by the dreams of the martyred intellectuals,” he stated.

Tarique paid heartfelt tribute to the martyred intellectuals, describing them as the nation's brightest minds who envisioned a democratic, just, and exploitation-free society. However, he lamented that collaborators of the occupying forces had executed a calculated massacre on the eve of victory, aiming to strip Bangladesh of its intellectual foundation.

"On this solemn day, I call upon the people to unite and work towards building a Bangladesh aligned with the dreams of the martyred intellectuals. I offer my deepest condolences to their families," Tarique concluded.