BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has said that democracy goes far beyond the mere act of holding elections – it fundamentally means ensuring people’s freedom and their basic rights.
In a statement issued on Thursday, marking Shaheed Jihad Day and the 30th anniversary of the martyrdom of Nazir Uddin Ahmed Jihad, Tarique emphasised that fair and credible polls are crucial to sustain democratic governance in the country.
“Democracy cannot thrive on elections alone. It stands on the foundation of people’s freedom and fundamental rights. Ensuring free, fair and inclusive elections is essential to keep that foundation intact,” he stated.
He called on the nation to unite against all conspiracies by local and foreign forces, protect national sovereignty, and revive genuine democracy — drawing inspiration from Jihad’s supreme sacrifice.
Tarique described Jihad as an “indomitable soldier” of the anti-autocracy movement of the 1990s, whose courage and sacrifice remain etched in the nation’s political history.
Jihad, a dedicated activist of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) from Ullapara in Sirajganj, was shot dead by police in Dhaka on 10 October 1990 during a mass uprising that toppled the military regime of Hussain Muhammad Ershad.
Tarique said Jihad laid down his life to restore democracy, freedom of expression and press freedom. As a fearless student leader, he faced police bullets during the anti-autocracy movement and embraced martyrdom.
He further noted that Jihad’s blood, along with that of others, ignited the people’s uprising that year, culminating in the fall of Ershad’s autocratic rule.
“The mass movement of 1990 was built on his sacrifice. He became an enduring symbol of courage and the struggle for democracy,” Tarique said.
He added that the autocratic regime tried to suffocate democracy, but Jihad’s unwavering determination strengthened the fight for democratic restoration. “If the dream Jihad died for remains unfulfilled, his soul will never find peace,” he warned.
“On Shaheed Jihad Day, I express my deepest respect to the memory of Shaheed Nazir Uddin Jihad – the fearless fighter against autocracy. I pray for the eternal peace of his soul,” Tarique concluded.
In a separate statement, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir also paid glowing tribute to Jihad, acknowledging his role in bringing down Ershad’s regime and reviving democratic rule.
Fakhrul added that upholding democratic values at every level of the state and society would be the most meaningful way to honour Jihad’s memory and sacrifice.
