Fakhrul calls attack on Iran 'horrible'

Local Government Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir

Dhaka, Mar 2 — Local Government Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has described the attack on Iran as “horrible.”

“We are living in very difficult and unstable times. There is a terrible lack of morality in world politics,” he said.

Mirza Fakhrul, also Secretary General of the BNP, made the remarks at the first death anniversary of BNP Chairperson’s Advisory Council Member Professor Shahida Rafique, held at the Institute of Science and Technology (IST) auditorium in Dhanmondi on Monday afternoon.

He said, “Interfering with the sovereignty of a country without reason, killing the head of the state, and detaining its president in prison… this is a terrible situation.”

Mirza Fakhrul added, “We, who have grown up in a democratic system, have always valued human rights, democracy, and the independence of every country. We are deeply concerned about what is happening around the world. Yet in Bangladesh, thanks to Allah, the people are still taking the right decisions despite the instability.”

Paying tribute to Professor Shahida Rafique, he said, “She always spoke the truth. She faced many challenges but never gave up. I am sad that when there is a chance for better days, she is no longer with us.”

Professor Shahida Rafique, former Dean of Dhaka University and founding chairman of the Institute of Science and Technology, passed away on 2 March last year.

Referring to the country’s challenges, Mirza Fakhrul said, “We have a long way to go. Over the past 17–18 years, fascist forces have destroyed many institutions, especially the education system.

“We need to rebuild our institutions, strengthen human rights, good governance, the rule of law, and the welfare state. Only then can we honour the work and wishes of Dr Shahida,” he added.

He also expressed his continued support for the institution founded by Professor Shahida Rafique. - UNB