BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed on Saturday cautioned that the nation will not forgive political parties if their internal divisions pave the way for the return of fascism in Bangladesh.
“If we allow fascism to make a comeback because of our divisions and lack of unity, the people of this country will never forgive us. That’s why we must stand united,” he said while addressing a discussion marking the 21st anniversary of the Daily Naya Diganta at Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy in Dhaka.
Salahuddin emphasised the need for all democratic forces to come together and resist any attempt by the Awami League to reestablish what he described as an “authoritarian rule.”
“All parties must remain united to ensure that the fascist Awami League never returns to power. This must be our collective vow,” he declared.
He also called on political parties to honour the sacrifices of those who shed their blood in the fight for democracy and national sovereignty.
“I sincerely hope that, despite our differences in ideology or opinion, we will remain united in protecting our country’s democracy, independence and sovereignty,” Salahuddin said.
Underscoring the importance of democratic consolidation, the BNP leader added, “It is our moral duty to build a strong democratic state and a society where future generations can live with freedom and dignity.”
Reflecting on his own experiences, he recounted, “For writing a few columns, I had to spend nine and a half years in exile, face brutal torture in ‘Aynaghar’, and serve prison time.”
Sharing a memory from his imprisonment, Salahuddin said, “At PG hospital prison, journalist Mahmudur Rahman and I were kept in separate cells. He went on a hunger strike, and I tried to persuade him to stop, warning him that if he died, Sheikh Hasina would be pleased. Eventually, senior leaders intervened, and he ended his strike after about a week.”
The BNP leader urged journalists to continue contributing to the cause of democracy through responsible and courageous reporting.
“The media must play a constructive role in shaping a truly democratic Bangladesh through truth and integrity,” he concluded.
