Prime Minister’s Political Adviser Zahir Uddin Swapon emphasized the sacrifices made by many leaders and activists of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in the struggle for establishing democracy. Speaking as the chief guest at a discussion organized by the Gournadi upazila unit of BNP to mark the party’s founding anniversary, Swapon highlighted the significant contributions and ultimate sacrifices of BNP members. He noted that these sacrifices were crucial in the movement to establish people’s voting rights.
Swapon recounted the turbulent political history of Bangladesh following its independence, mentioning the destruction of democratic rights and the establishment of fascist rule, which led to widespread dissent. He referenced the bloody political changes of August 15 and the subsequent abolition of BAKSAL. Swapon also spoke about the complicated political period before the founding of BNP and the role played by BNP founder Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman in stabilizing the nation.
The adviser paid tribute to BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia for leading the anti-autocracy movement against the Ershad regime. He mentioned the sacrifices of leaders and activists, including Chhatra Dal activist Wasim, who were killed during the 2024 July mass uprising. Swapon also noted that 221 people remain missing in connection with the movement for democracy.
Swapon criticized the then ruling authorities and fascist rulers, stating that they faced social boycott. He made a pointed remark about Sheikh Hasina, suggesting that if she were to return to the country, she would have to go to jail. The discussion was chaired by Gournadi upazila BNP Convener and Valiant Freedom Fighter Syed Sarwar Alam Biplob, with Barishal North District BNP Member Secretary Md Mizanur Rahman Mukul addressing the event as the chief speaker.
Other speakers at the event included Gournadi Upazila BNP Member Secretary Sharif Zahir Sajjad Hannan, Gournadi Municipal BNP Convener Md Zakir Hossain Sharif, Municipal BNP Member Secretary Sharif Shafiqur Rahman Swapan, and Barishal North District Jubo Dal Senior Joint Convener Saiyedur Alam Khan Sentu. The event saw participation from various local leaders of BNP and its associated bodies. Earlier in the day, Swapon attended meetings with the Agailjhara and Gournadi upazila administrations and participated in BNP programmes to mark the party’s founding anniversary.
