BNP Standing Committee Member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has expressed optimism that the future Bangladesh will be a “rainbow nation,” where equal rights for every individual will be ensured regardless of race, religion, or colour.
He made the remark as chief guest at the national memorial meeting, organised by the Shatabdi Bangladesh Buddhist Society in Chattogram city on Friday.
The event was held at the port city Parade Ground in memory of the Buddhist religious leader the Thirteenth Sangharaj Aggamahapandit Dr Gyanashree Mahathero.
Paying deep tribute to Dr Mahathero, Khosru said, “He was not only a great scholar, but also a unique champion of humanitarian service and the peace. His philosophy was to serve the helpless and to find joy in the happiness of others and sorrow in their suffering.”
“This service-oriented message of religion should have been the driving force of politics as well, but current politics has strayed far from that path of peace. BNP is now working to restore that stability, mutual respect, and coexistence in the country.”
In his speech, Khosru placed special emphasis on BNP’s “Rainbow Nation” philosophy.
He said, “Our national leader, Khaleda Zia, left us with this unique concept. Just as a rainbow becomes beautiful through the harmony of many colours, so too in Bangladesh, each person will have their own religion, language, and history, but the country will belong to everyone.
“BNP believes in a liberal democracy where the identity of every citizen, irrespective of race, religion, or colour, will simply be that of a Bangladeshi.”
Khosru added, “The teachings of great souls like Dr Gyanashree Mahathero must not only be spoken but also practised and embodied in real life.
“In future Bangladesh, we must ensure that the benefits of development – education, health, and employment – reach every ordinary household and that equality is maintained at all levels of national life.”
Referring to past discrimination, he said, “The days of patronage for specific groups or exclusive privileges are over from now on. A level playing field, or equal opportunity, will be created for every citizen of the country, and no form of discrimination will be tolerated.”
At the event, he described Khaleda Zia as the “Mother of Democracy,” called for upholding her ideals, and sought everyone’s prayers and support for her.
Those present at the time included BNP-nominated candidate for Chattogram-9 constituency Abu Sufian and BNP Foreign Affairs Committee member Israfil Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury. Buddhist followers and distinguished individuals from various parts of the country attended the event.
