Fakhrul expresses hope for a democratic and prosperous Bangladesh under Tarique Rahman

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Thursday expressed optimism that Bangladesh will emerge as a democratic, happy, and prosperous nation under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s leadership.

“People across the country are hopeful and have strong confidence in Tarique Rahman. We believe his leadership will guide Bangladesh towards democracy, prosperity, and happiness,” he said.

Fakhrul, who also serves as the LGRD and Cooperatives Minister, made the remarks while speaking to reporters after paying tribute at the graves of former President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, marking the 56th Independence and National Day.

On behalf of the BNP, he extended greetings to the nation on the occasion.

He noted that this year’s Independence Day is being observed in a different context, reflecting on what he described as a prolonged period of political struggle. “Despite repression and hardship, people continued their আন্দোলন, and the July mass uprising created an opportunity to rebuild a democratic system,” he said.

Fakhrul added that Tarique Rahman, who led the party from abroad for years, is now working to rebuild the country with a renewed vision after assuming office. “In just one month, he has already taken Bangladesh forward under his leadership,” he said.

He highlighted several government initiatives, including the introduction of family cards, allowances for imams and religious leaders, canal excavation programmes, and interest waivers for marginal farmers.

At the outset, Fakhrul paid deep respect to BNP founder Ziaur Rahman, saying his declaration of independence inspired the nation to join the Liberation War. He added that Zia led the patriotic armed forces alongside the জনগণ during the nine-month যুদ্ধ to secure independence.

On behalf of the BNP, Fakhrul also paid tribute to all martyrs of the Liberation War, as well as those who were injured and suffered during the conflict.

He further remembered former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia for her contributions to democracy and offered profound respect in her memory.

Earlier, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman paid homage at the graves first as head of government and later as BNP chairman, accompanied by senior party leaders.

They later joined a munajat seeking eternal peace for the departed souls of Ziaur Rahman and Khaleda Zia, and prayed for the wellbeing of the country and its people.