Staff Correspondent, Dhaka
BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia has called on the interim government to hold an acceptable election to restore the democratic system after swiftly implementing minimum reforms.
The former prime minister, who is currently in London, UK, for treatment, made the appeal while virtually joining an extended meeting of the party on the LD Hall premises of the Jatiya Sangsad.
"After six long years, you have once again united in a fascist-free Bangladesh. For this, I offer thousands of thanks to Allah.
"I pay my respects to those who were martyred in the prolonged struggle against fascism and those who lost their lives in the brutal July mass killing carried out by oppressive fascist rulers. I also extend my sincere sympathy to the injured," she said.
Though currently undergoing treatment abroad, she assured party leaders and activists of her unwavering support.
"For 15 years, you fought tirelessly for democracy and my release. Many of our comrades sacrificed their lives, suffered persecution and continue to seek justice in court under the burden of around 125,000 false cases. Your sacrifices will not be forgotten by the party or the nation."
The country was going through a critical time, she noted. "With your combined efforts and the student movement, the fascist ruler has been ousted. An interim government has been formed. The people's expectation from them is to complete the necessary minimum reforms to repair the state and organize an election that is acceptable to all."
She acknowledged the efforts of the party’s acting chairman in keeping BNP strong in her absence along with senior leaders and those in attendance.
She thanked them all, saying she believed they would remain committed to the ideals of martyred president Ziaur Rahman and work together for success in the upcoming election.
“Do not do anything that would undermine our long struggle and sacrifices. We must always remember president Ziaur Rahman's words: 'The party is greater than the individual, and the nation is greater than the party.'"
Khaleda said the people of Bangladesh, especially the youth, were eager for a positive democratic change.
"We must set aside petty divisions and work for the greater interest of the country and the nation," she added.
The BNP chief warned that collaborators of fascists and enemies of Bangladesh were still conspiring to undermine the achievements of the July uprising.
"Through an ironclad unity, we must stand with the people and thwart these conspiracies. We must all work together to build a democratic Bangladesh."
