Economic Crisis Looms, Famine Fears Grip People: BNP’s Ruhul Kabir Rizvi

Dhaka, July 11, 2025: Highlighting the dire economic situation in the country, BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi warned that the possibility of a famine in September-October is a growing concern among the public. “This is not just talk; if we see or hear signs of famine, the people will not spare us,” he said during a speech as the chief guest at an event organized by Zia Parishad in front of BNP’s central office in Naya Paltan. The event, held on Friday morning, involved distributing prayer mats to the underprivileged while praying for the recovery of Zia Parishad President and BNP Chairperson’s Advisor Dr. Abdul Kuddus. Rizvi emphasized that BNP has been fighting for a greater ideal, stating, “We are struggling for human equality, justice, and the rule of law, which requires true, genuine democracy. This is a fight for a larger cause, to restore the people’s ownership. Denying that ownership is tantamount to encouraging fascism.” He noted that a people’s government must be accountable at every step, a principle absent in the current system. Rizvi expressed support for the interim government, saying, “We believe the interim government has public support, as all political parties, except the Awami League and a few of its allies, back it. We all support Dr. Muhammad Yunus. However, if signs of famine emerge, the people will hold us accountable.” Rizvi raised concerns about the closure of numerous garment factories, leading to widespread unemployment. “If people cannot afford food, it will create conditions for famine. If that happens, no one will be spared, and the fallen fascists will applaud,” he warned. He urged the government to appoint administrators to manage struggling institutions and prevent factory closures, ensuring workers’ livelihoods. “The economy is in a dire state. This is not mere rhetoric; people are worried about a possible famine in September-October. While financial discipline is necessary, creating jobs is equally critical, or no one will be spared by the people,” he added. Commenting on reforms, Rizvi clarified that BNP supports them and noted that many points in the party’s 31-point agenda align with proposed reforms. “BNP has never opposed reforms; we’ve endorsed them. The July Charter reflects many of our points. However, reforms are not static like mountains; they are dynamic and should evolve based on the needs of society, the state, and democracy,” he said. He criticized attempts to create confusion by prioritizing reforms over restoring people’s power, calling it the most crucial task. “For 16 years, Sheikh Hasina locked the door to people’s power. We must now open that door by returning power to the people through their chosen government,” he asserted. The event was attended by BNP Joint Secretary General Advocate Abdus Salam Azad, Volunteer Affairs Secretary Mir Sarafat Ali Sapu, Zia Parishad Senior Vice President Dr. Shafiqul Islam, General Secretary Dr. Emtiaz Hossain, Senior Joint Secretary General Abdullahhil Masud, Organizational Secretary Robiul Islam, Zia Parishad DESCO Branch Member Secretary Md. Moazzem Hossain, and Joint Convener Shamsul, among others.