Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Wednesday said that the people of Bangladesh will never allow Jamaat-e-Islami to come to power because of the party’s opposition to the country’s independence.
Speaking as the chief guest at a reception following an inspection of Thakurgaon Airport, the Fakhrul, also the BNP Secretary General, addressed what he termed “misinformation” being spread by certain political groups.
He dismissed claims that the BNP does not support the implementation of the July Charter or necessary reforms. “Those saying these things are lying. The people will not forgive such false statements,” he asserted.
Referring to Jamaat-e-Islami, Mirza Fakhrul criticised the use of religion in politics and the dissemination of misleading rhetoric.
He noted that the party has been campaigning as if they have already assumed power.
“In reality, they have not come to power, and they will not be able to in the future,” he said.
Regarding local infrastructure, the minister announced that Thakurgaon Airport would be made operational within the next two years. He highlighted that this was a specific commitment made by BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman prior to the elections. While acknowledging that the facility might not be used by everyone, he described the airport as a “symbol of pride” for the people of Thakurgaon.
Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam who was also in attendance, emphasised that the government is focused on a permanent and sustainable plan for the airport’s reopening.
“We do not want to take an initiative that shuts down after two days,” she stated, adding that the administration is working day and night to fulfil the promise made under Tarique Rahman’s leadership.
She further requested the cooperation and patience of the public during this process.
State Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat, district BNP leaders, representatives from social and cultural organisations, industrialists, and local business owners, were present at the event, among others.
