BNP National Standing Committee member and Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has said Bangladesh stands firm because of the uncompromising leadership of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia.
He said Khaleda Zia had to lead the struggle for the hopes and aspirations of the people of Bangladesh, the country’s independence and sovereignty, improvement of living standards for people from all walks of life, and political and democratic rights.
He made the remarks on Saturday while addressing a milad and doa mahfil organized by the BNP at its central office in Naya Paltan in the capital to mark the 82nd birth anniversary of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia.
Amir Khasru said difficult times are part of politics. Those who can overcome difficult times, withstand pressure and remain steadfast in the face of oppression and persecution are the true leaders in the hearts of the people. Begum Khaleda Zia, he said, is one such leader.
He said Khaleda Zia earned the title of “Uncompromising Leader” because of her unwavering stance. She faced immense pressure at different stages of her political life, while many others gave in to such pressure and surrendered.
“But Begum Khaleda Zia never bowed to any pressure. Because she refused to surrender, we were able to stand firm. Had she surrendered, we would not have been able to stand,” he said.
He said Khaleda Zia’s strong and uncompromising stance had helped advance the movement and struggle for the democratic aspirations of the people of Bangladesh. She remained a driving force behind the country’s prolonged political struggle and its politics of sacrifice.
Amir Khasru said that despite relentless efforts to destroy Khaleda Zia and end her life, she overcame all obstacles and remained Bangladesh’s most popular leader. He said she passed away with the recognition she had earned from the people of Bangladesh, both during her lifetime and after her death.
He said there was no reason to think that everything had become easy simply because the party was coming to power. The past movements, struggles and sacrifices must be remembered and carried forward, he added.
He further said Khaleda Zia’s life and sacrifices would be meaningful if everyone worked together to implement the programs that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has decided to undertake to bring political stability to Bangladesh and improve the lives of its people in the days ahead.
The doa and milad mahfil was moderated by BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi. BNP-nominated presidential candidate and former party Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, BNP National Standing Committee members Gayeshwar Chandra Roy and Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan also addressed the event.
FP/R
