In a recent address, Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, Senior Joint Secretary General of the BNP and Prime Minister's Political Adviser, emphasized that state reforms, constitutional amendments, or new laws alone cannot ensure a stable democracy without a fundamental transformation in the political leadership's mindset.
Mindset Change Crucial for Democracy
Rizvi made these remarks during a discussion at Dhaka University, titled 'Role of university teachers in the fall of the fascist government.' He argued that without a change in political psychology, any constitutional amendments or reforms could revert to authoritarianism.
Historical Examples of Political Hypocrisy
To illustrate his point, Rizvi cited how Sheikh Hasina, the Prime Minister, once advocated for a caretaker government system but later scrapped it unilaterally, despite parliamentary committee recommendations. He also criticized a recent photo exhibition at Jamaat-e-Islami's headquarters for omitting key figures from the 1971 Liberation War and the July Uprising.
Concerns Over Recent Political Activities
Rizvi expressed concern over a photo exhibition that left out Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, the proclaimer of independence. He questioned India's role in allowing a fugitive fascist figure to address a program in New Delhi and suggested this could be a response to Bangladesh's foreign policy initiatives.
Praise for Current Government Initiatives
Despite his criticisms, Rizvi praised the Prime Minister's development and social welfare programs, including family cards, farmer cards, canal-digging drives, and actions against negligence in health and education sectors. He accused conspirators of attempting to create an artificial crisis to disrupt this governance.
