Minister praises Khaleda Zia, urges vigilance against fascism.
Information and Broadcasting minister Zahir Uddin Swapon today said former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia has become a symbol of leadership and democracy for her unmatched sacrifice and contribution to establish the country’s people rights.
"Begum Khaleda Zia's contribution is undeniable, from the movement against the Ershad autocratic regime to the restoration of democracy and the introduction of the caretaker government system to ensure free and fair elections," he said.
The minister made the remarks while addressing, as the chief guest, the unveiling ceremony of the book titled "July Andolon Ebong Gulibiddho Dui Chokh" written by Sayema Zerin.
The programme was held at the Kabi Sufia Kamal Auditorium of the National Museum here this evening.
The minister said, Begum Khaleda Zia remained uncompromising in establishing the rights of the people despite enduring immense oppression.
"Building a new system after dismantling the old one is an entirely different task. Destruction requires strength but reconstruction demands creativity and political maturity. Leadership cannot be sustained without required quality,” he said.
Reaffirming the government's policy stance, he said, "We are firmly committed to maintaining an active and effective parliamentary system where debates will take place in parliament and the opposition will hold the government accountable.”
However, the people must remain vigilant against those who seek to create division through artificial dramas on social media or on the streets, he said.
“Unless every form of blindness in society is removed, fascism will strike again and again," he added.
Connecting the Liberation War with July Mass Uprising, he said, "The July Mass Uprising of 2024 is the extended form of our Liberation War. The objective of both struggles was to establish the rights of the people and social justice."
He urged all to remain vigilant so that no quarter could separate the spirit of the Liberation War from the sacrifices made during the July movement.
State Minister for Planning Zonayed Abdur Rahim Saki addressed the function as the special guest.
Among others, law maker Helen Zerin Khan, BNP Joint Organising Secretary and Madaripur Zila Parishad Administrator Khondokar Mashukur Rahman, also spoke on the occasion.
Family members of July Martyrs and injured July fighters also shared their experience and feelings at the event.
