National Politics Not in a Comfortable State: Ruhul Kabir Rizvi

Speaking at a financial assistance distribution event in Dewanganj, Jamalpur, BNP’s Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi stated that the state of national politics is far from reassuring. The event took place on Wednesday afternoon at the Dewanganj Girls’ High School ground, organized by ‘We Are BNP Family’ to provide financial aid and auto-rickshaws to families of martyrs and those injured in the mass uprising in Jamalpur.

Rizvi remarked, “I believe national politics is not in a comfortable state. Through the blood-soaked movement that led to the fall of a ferocious, bloodthirsty tyrant on August 5, the people of this country expected a peaceful and stable political environment. That expectation still persists and has not faded. However, in some instances, I feel there might be hidden motives. Certain discussions are taking place that are not desirable to the people.” He further elaborated, “A couple of political parties, which also participated in the movement, talk about a ‘point of no return.’ They insist their stance must prevail. But what have we done? Over the past 16 years, our MPs, elected representatives, and youth leaders have disappeared, been abducted, or killed. Many of our leaders and activists’ bodies were found on the banks of the Ichamati, Madhumati, and Shitalakshya rivers. Facing a brutal fascist regime, the groundwork for the July-August uprising was laid by our leader Begum Khaleda Zia and Tarique Rahman. Has all this been in vain? Has it all been rendered meaningless?” Commenting on recent developments, Rizvi said, “A reform commission has been formed, and they are holding discussions. There is consensus on some issues, while disagreements persist on others—this is the nature of democracy. However, some propose ideas and then impose conditions. What is this? They suggest proportional representation (PR) in elections, but many in this country don’t even know what PR is. They didn’t advocate for this earlier, yet now they insist on enforcing it.” He continued, “PR was never discussed before, not at any level. Intellectuals and civil society never raised this issue. Suddenly, they demand PR or proportional voting, resorting to arm-twisting tactics. They say they won’t participate in elections without it. This wasn’t the agreement. The people are not familiar with this concept. Yet, a couple of political parties are making unreasonable demands, acting like they’re entitled to everything.” The event was chaired by Atikur Rahman, convener of ‘We Are BNP Family.’ Other speakers included Professor Maudud Hossain, convener of BNP’s media cell, BNP treasurer M Rashiduzzaman (Millat), Jamalpur district BNP president Faridul Kabir Talukdar, and general secretary Shah Md. Wares Ali Mamun, among others.