BNP has repeatedly provided resolution-oriented leadership during national crises, Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon told parliament on Wednesday.
“While past rulers used state power, BNP has conducted politics through political processes, democratic norms, constitutional frameworks and reasoned debate. Today’s parliament is proof of that,” the minister said while taking part in the discussion on the motion of thanks on the President’s speech. Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed presided.
Describing the current parliament as a reflection of a different and diverse reality, Swapon said it is more diverse than the previous 12 parliaments. “Changes in voting behaviour and political equations have created a new reality in the country’s democratic process.”
The minister noted that from the Liberation War to subsequent political changes, BNP has played a role under the leadership of founder Ziaur Rahman, later Khaleda Zia, and currently Tarique Rahman. Highlighting the events of 1971, 1975, 1982 and 2024, he said BNP has played an important role in tackling state crises.
Swapon said the government has taken charge with the country burdened by a debt of approximately Tk30 lakh crore, and is already working to address the crisis.
He reported that daily stock market trading has increased from approximately Tk500 crore to Tk1,000 crore, while remittance flows have also improved.
Regarding the global situation, he said the war in the Middle East and the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz are affecting fuel imports, creating instability in the global economy, but national consensus has been reached in parliament on these issues.
The minister called upon the opposition party and the 11-party alliance to play a constructive role. “Unity is needed for national development, and a responsible role must be played from within parliament.”
He also said ideological debates exist in the country centred around the Liberation War, the 2024 movement, and various political events, but religion and the spirit of the Liberation War should not be used politically. He praised the President’s speech and thanked the Speaker for conducting parliament.
