In a recent statement, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir accused the government of executing prominent leaders in 'false cases'. He specifically mentioned the cases of Jamaat-e-Islami leaders Motiur Rahman Nizami and Mir Quasem Ali, as well as BNP leader Salahuddin Quader Chowdhury, and other religious scholars. Alamgir's remarks were made during a program at the Shilpakala Academy, celebrating the 21st anniversary of the Bengali daily newspaper Daily Naya Diganta.
According to Alamgir, the nation has not forgotten the oppressive tactics of the fascist government against democratic forces. He claimed that false cases were filed against 60 lakh activists, resulting in the killings and enforced disappearances of over 20,000 leaders and activists. The BNP leader emphasized the suffering endured by journalists, editors, publishers, and workers of the Naya Diganta during the fascist regime.
Alamgir also highlighted the challenging period for press freedom under the Baksal rule in 1975, when journalists lost their jobs and some were forced to become street vendors. He credited late President Ziaur Rahman for restoring press freedom and re-establishing multi-party democracy.
Looking ahead to the upcoming general election, Alamgir announced the date for the election, set for February 2026. He urged political unity and participation in the election to restore democracy. He emphasized the people's desire for a truly sovereign and democratic nation, free from foreign control and governed by the will of the people.
