Bangla Press Desk: Acting BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman has said that holding a free and fair general election is essential for ensuring the continuation of democracy in the country.
“To sustain democracy, a fair election must be held. Democracy does not only mean elections- it also means safeguarding people’s freedom and fundamental rights,” he said in a message issued on Thursday, marking Shaheed Jihad Day.
Paying tribute to Nazir Uddin Jihad, who was killed during the anti-Ershad movement in the 1990s, Tarique Rahman described him as an unforgettable name in the struggle against dictatorship.
"That blood-stained movement was waged for the restoration of multi-party democracy, freedom of expression and freedom of the press," he said.
He said Jihad played a leading role in the mass movement against Ershad’s dictatorship and embraced martyrdom when a police bullet struck his chest. “His sacrifice inspired the people’s uprising that eventually toppled the dictator,” he said.
Tarique Rahman added that dictator Ershad had killed democracy, while Jihad gave his life with the determination to restore it on a strong foundation. “If we fail to realise his dream, his soul will be hurt,” he warned.
Underscoring the need for upholding the spirit of sacrifice manifested by Jihad, he urged everyone to resist the conspiracies of “local and foreign evil forces” in order to safeguard independence, sovereignty and democracy.
On the occasion of Shaheed Jihad Day, the acting BNP chairman paid his deepest respect to the memory of Jihad and prayed for his eternal peace.
BP/SP
