No force allowed to drag country backward: Fakhrul

"The recent struggle to safeguard democracy does not mean a new fascist force will be allowed to emerge. No one will be given the chance to take the country backward," he said.

Fakhrul made the remarks as the chief guest at a discussion held to mark Martyred Intellectuals Day, organized by the Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Muktijoddha Dal at the Engineers Institute Auditorium in Ramna.

He stressed the importance of historical awareness, saying, "All of us should study history. In 1971, intellectuals, teachers, and litterateurs-men and women-were abducted and brutally killed. There is no reason to forgive those who murdered our brightest minds on that day."

Highlighting the significance of the day, Fakhrul said Bangladesh is a spiritual and cultural nation built collectively by Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, and Christians. "Nothing can ever be forcibly imposed on this country, and it will not happen this time either. The people will make the right decision," he added.

Expressing confidence ahead of the next national election, he said, "The people of Bangladesh will vote for the establishment of a new Bangladesh based on the ideals of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, the democratic struggle of 'Deshnetri' Begum Khaleda Zia, and Tarique Rahman's 31-point programme. That choice will favor the 'Sheaf of Paddy' symbol."

Addressing allegations of false propaganda against the BNP, Fakhrul said efforts have been ongoing on social media since August 5, 2024, to tarnish the party's image. He urged the younger generation to resist such campaigns.

Referring to the health condition of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, he said it is a matter of concern for all nationalist activists. "This great woman has struggled for the people all her life. She has been imprisoned and denied proper treatment even during illness," he added.

Fakhrul recalled that on August 8, 2024, Begum Zia sent a message from the hospital during a rally outside the party office, urging the nation to build a new Bangladesh based on love rather than revenge.

He also claimed that the defeated fascist forces, unwilling to accept their losses, are plotting to destabilize the country. "They are trying to create unrest through attempts to kill Hadi and other provocative statements, but the people will not let these conspiracies succeed," he said.

Fakhrul expressed hope that the people of Bangladesh would never bow to injustice and that no conspiracy could suppress them. He said the nation would continue to advance along the path shown by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, Begum Khaleda Zia, and Tarique Rahman, reports BSS. 

Regarding BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman's return, Fakhrul said, "Inshallah, he will come back on December 25. This is a source of great inspiration amid uncertainty. On that day, we will give him a reception Bangladesh has never seen before."