Thakurgaon: BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Monday urged voters not to ‘destroy the country’ by casting ballots for those who had collaborated with the Pakistani force in 1971 and are now seeking to rule the country again. ‘Those who assisted the Pakistani army even at the last moment are today asking for votes to govern the country. Do not ruin the nation by voting for them,’ said Fakhrul, also the BNP-nominated candidate for Thakurgaon-1 constituency. He made the remarks during the election campaign at BD High School ground in Begunbari Union of Sadar upazila in the afternoon.

According to United News of Bangladesh, Fakhrul emphasized the importance of upholding the spirit of 1971, stating that the year represents the country’s identity. He reminded the audience that Bangladesh was born out of Pakistan’s exploitation and repression, and through their fight against Pakistan, they achieved independence. Fakhrul also pointed out the absence of the ‘Boat’ symbol in the election race, noting that former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has left the country and is currently in Delhi, leaving her party leaders and activists exposed amid student protests.

Fakhrul criticized those who flee in times of crisis, asserting that the right to vote was earned through the sacrifices of many students. He highlighted the denial of freedom of expression over the past 15 years and the legal challenges faced by voters. Addressing the concerns of the Hindu community, Fakhrul assured them of their safety, echoing Begum Khaleda Zia’s statement that there are no minorities in Bangladesh and that everyone is a citizen.

He pledged that BNP would protect the rights of all citizens, regardless of religion, and would be steadfast in safeguarding women’s rights. On the topic of agriculture, Fakhrul noted that the sector has not been properly developed, leaving farmers vulnerable. He shared BNP’s plans to promote agriculture-based industrialization if voted into power and encouraged obtaining technical training to seize job opportunities abroad.

Sadar upazila BNP President Abdul Hamid and other party leaders and activists were present at the programme.