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Barishal, May 1, 2025: BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi called on the interim government to restore power to the people and announce a specific date for a free and fair election. Speaking at a workers’ rally in Barishal on Thursday, he warned that any resurgence of fascism would spare no one, urging democratic forces to remain united and work together.
The rally, held in front of the BNP office on Sadar Road, was organized to mark the struggles of workers. Rizvi highlighted the plight of the country’s 73.5 million workers out of 120 million voters, stating they have been deprived, oppressed, and neglected for the past 15-16 years under the Awami League government led by Sheikh Hasina. He accused the previous regime of denying workers the right to organize, form trade unions, or hold rallies, citing the Essential Services Bill 2023 as a tool to suppress workers’ demands.
Rizvi criticized the lack of wage increases, rampant layoffs, and poor working conditions, particularly in jute mills, sugar mills, and garment factories. He recounted instances of violence against workers, alleging that Sheikh Hasina’s forces, including RAB and police, killed workers like Anjuman Ara Khatun, Jalal Uddin, and Rasel during protests for minimum wage in the garment sector. He also referenced the 2024 uprising on August 5, where over 100 workers were martyred, as a turning point in the fight against oppression.
Addressing the current economic crisis, Rizvi noted that gas and electricity shortages have led to factory closures, resulting in thousands of layoffs. He lamented the lack of support for workers’ families, with many unable to afford basic necessities or education for their children. He also criticized the previous government’s policies, such as outsourcing, which put permanent workers at risk, and the closure of jute and sugar mills due to anti-people policies.
Rizvi accused the Awami League of exploiting workers through syndicates that extorted money for overseas jobs, particularly in Malaysia, leaving many workers jobless despite selling their assets. He urged the interim government, led by Dr. Muhammad Yunus, to ensure mills and factories remain operational under administrative oversight to prevent further layoffs. He emphasized that the government must prioritize job creation and address public needs to maintain trust.
In a sharp critique, Rizvi questioned the interim government’s focus on establishing a humanitarian corridor in Myanmar’s Rakhine State, arguing that it neglects domestic issues and the sentiments of political parties that fought for democracy. He stressed that the government, though not elected, must act in line with public aspirations and avoid decisions that could jeopardize Bangladesh’s sovereignty and security.
Rizvi also took aim at Sheikh Hasina, alleging she is hiding in a neighboring country and issuing threats via video messages, likening her to Osama bin Laden’s “cousin.” He cited 227 cases filed against her, including her alleged admission of ordering 227 murders, as verified by forensic analysis.
The rally, chaired by Barishal City Workers’ Dal Convener Foyez Ahmed Khan, featured speeches by BNP leaders, including Dr. Mohammad Rafiqul Islam, Kuddusur Rahman, Hasan Mamun, and others. It concluded with a vibrant procession through the city’s main streets, joined by smaller marches from various parts of Barishal.
AI/MR
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