Abdus Salam Azad, the central Joint Secretary General of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), cautioned on Friday that the country cannot remain safe under political forces that manipulate religion and the historic Liberation War for their own interests.
Speaking at a mass prayer gathering at Louhajong University College grounds, held to support the 31-point state reform programme proposed by BNP leader Tarique Rahman and to pray for the health of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, Azad stressed the importance of political integrity and national safety.
He asserted that the BNP’s administration represented the safest era in Bangladesh’s history. “Security is compromised when religion is politicised. During BNP rule, every citizen was safe, including religious minorities. This legacy of protection must continue,” he said.
Azad praised the sacrifices of BNP activists and ordinary citizens, particularly during the July movement, describing their martyrdom as a source of pride for the entire nation, not merely their families. He highlighted that the party has planned multiple programmes to honour their memory.
Recounting the legacy of the late President Ziaur Rahman, Azad reminded the audience that he introduced multi-party democracy, providing opportunities for the Awami League to participate politically. However, he criticised the party for conspiring against Zia and the nation once in power. Azad warned that any party historically opposed to Bangladesh’s independence could again threaten national security if allowed unchecked influence. He urged citizens to identify and reject such parties at the ballot box.
The gathering, chaired by Upazila Jubo Dal convener Haji Mukhtar Hossain Khan, included addresses by veteran freedom fighters, central committee members, and grassroots leaders. Azad concluded by requesting prayers from citizens for the swift recovery of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, emphasising the party’s commitment to national stability, democracy, and public safety.