Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) paid tribute at the Central Shaheed Minar on the occasion of International Mother Language Day and Martyrs’ Day.

A BNP delegation, led by Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, placed wreaths at the monument around 8 am on Friday (February 21).

Speaking to reporters after paying respects, Rizvi said the Language Movement paved the way for the country’s independence. He added that whenever the nation faced dictatorship, the spirit of 1952 inspired people to fight for their rights.

Referring to past political struggles, he said BNP leaders and activists faced killings and crossfire for years. He claimed that through relentless sacrifices, a political change took place in July-August, forcing a corrupt and oppressive ruler to flee. He remarked that supporting democracy would have been a better choice for them.

Bringing up BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, Rizvi said, “No one flees if they stand for democracy. Begum Khaleda Zia is an example—despite extreme repression, she never left the country or the people.”

In response to a question about elections, the BNP leader stressed the need for a national election first. He said a political government should then conduct local government elections to uphold democratic practices. He urged authorities not to delay the process.

BDST: 1234 HRS, FEB 21, 2025
MSK