"My Political Guardian is Zahir Uddin Swapon" – K.M Ariful Islam Arif

From an early age, K.M. Ariful Islam Arif has carried a deep, unwavering love for the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). Though his full name is K.M. Ariful Islam Arif, he is widely known in political circles as Khan Mohammad Arif. Currently, he serves as Member No. 2 of the Convening Committee of the Gournadi Municipal Chhatra Dal, under Barisal District.

His entire political journey has been defined by dedication, resilience, and an unbreakable bond with the BNP. Today, he opens up about his life, his upbringing, and his political struggles — in a special interview conducted by senior reporter Soyeb Sikder (Aronno).

Q: Tell us about your political background.

Arif Khan:I was raised in a family where my father and uncles followed the ideals of the BNP, especially the philosophies of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. My political initiation began right there — at home.I formally entered politics in 2012, inspired by Zahir Uddin Swapon, MP for Gournadi-Agailjhara, a key figure in the BNP media cell and advisor to Begum Khaleda Zia. His personality and political ideals deeply influenced me.

My core inspirations are Shaheed Ziaur Rahman, and the pride of youth, Tarique Rahman, but my political guardian and idol is none other than Zahir Uddin Swapon Bhai.

As long as I live, I want to remain under his guidance. He’s not just a leader of one constituency — he’s a national treasure. Being his colleague is a rare privilege.

I'm just a humble BNP activist and don’t consider myself anything beyond that.

Q: Have you ever faced obstacles due to your political involvement?

Arif Khan (with a smile):Since 2012 to 2025, I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been physically assaulted. Some of these incidents have been covered by the media. I was seriously injured around 8 to 10 times.

The most severe attack was during the 2018 municipal election, when I was campaigning for BNP-nominated candidate Zahir Sajjad Hannan Sharif Bhai. Awami League, Chhatra League, and Jubo League activists beat me brutally. I had to be hospitalized for an extended period.In 2023, during a protest in Barisal Town Hall against the rising cost of living, our demonstration was violently attacked by ruling party supporters. Bombs were thrown at us, and I was attacked with sharp weapons.

That same year, during BNP’s national “Youth Call” program, while traveling to attend, Ward-1 Jubo League President Sujon Hawlader and his men ambushed me. Locals took me to the hospital. The incident was widely reported, and different levels of Chhatra Dal, including Barisal District, Gournadi Thana, and various ward units, issued strong condemnations.