# Rizvi Calls for Political Mindset Shift to Sustain Democracy in Bangladesh

*BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi asserts that political leaders' mindsets must change for democracy to endure, highlighting historical political hypocrisy.*

August 8, 2026 · Politics

## At a glance

- Rizvi calls for a fundamental change in political leadership's mindset for lasting democracy.
- Historical examples of political hypocrisy cited to support his argument.
- Concerns raised about recent political activities and their potential impact on democracy.

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.

## Sources

- BSS

---
Source: https://pulsetoday.com.bd/en/politics/rizvi-democracy-transformation-mindset