Attempts to spread extremism creating frustration: Fakhrul
He said formation of a representative government elected by people is the only way to resolve the crisis.
BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said on Saturday that attempts to spread extremism and divert democratic discussions are causing frustration in the society.
“When I aspire to see a progressive society, develop a proper system to ensure people’s rights and reduce inequality but I see attempts to divert thoughts to an entirely different direction by spreading extremism, then frustration is inevitable,” he said while speaking at a discussion at Jatiya Press Club in Dhaka.
Orpon Alok Sangha, an association of BNP leaders and activists who were victims of political repression organised the event.
He said formation of a representative government elected by people is the only way to resolve the crisis.
Mirza Fakhrul said if a representative government can be formed through holding a fair election, then a system will be created that is accountable to the people. “I think now this will be a good way out, where we can solve problems,” he said.
“In fact, I believe in my heart that the structure needs to be reformed. We first have to change our structure. We have to consider these issues of great importance,” he added.
The BNP secretary general said after the Mass Uprising, disputes and debates take place whenever changes for building a new state structure and reforms are started. “It’s good that there will be arguments and debates if we want to go to democracy, but sometimes we go to such a place where disappointment arises.”
He stressed the need for reforms in the state structure to ensure social protection for marginalised communities. “These problems cannot be solved in a haphazard or patchwork manner. Specific visions and goals are required in this regard.”
Blaming the Awami League for destroying the state institutions during the past 15 years, the BNP leader remarked, “The country has been bankrupted, and institutions have collapsed. It is unrealistic to think that this damage can be repaired within just one and a half years.”
He pointed to massive corruption as one of the main reasons behind the ongoing political crisis. “Upazila chairmen’s responsibilities had been taken over by MPs, which is not their job. Instead of making laws, they were discussing road repairs, building construction, and even whether cars should be purchased. The state system has turned into a mechanism of plunder,” he said.
Mirza Fakhrul also alleged that bureaucrats are now controlling everything, leaving even advisers powerless in many cases.
“A teacher from a small town has to come to Dhaka to solve problems, which should not be the case. This system ensures that bribes reach the centre. Teachers at universities, schools, and even nurses are appointed through bribery,” he added.
