# Election to Decide if Bangladesh Stays with Democrats or Falls to Extremists: Fakhrul

> BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir called the upcoming election crucial, saying it will decide whether Bangladesh remains under liberal democrats or extremist anti-state forces. Speaking at Ziaur Rahman’s…

Published: 2026-01-21 · Desk: Latest · Source: The Business Standard

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir claimed that the upcoming election is crucial, saying it will determine whether the country remains in the hands of liberal democrats or extremist, anti-state forces. He emphasized that Bangladesh must choose the path of democracy and progress.

Speaking at a discussion on Tuesday (January 20) at the Diploma Engineers Institute in Kakrail, Dhaka, on the 90th birth anniversary of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman, Fakhrul said, “BNP will win by a large margin, and that’s why various schemes have begun. Those causing the most trouble are the ones who once denied Bangladesh, did not believe in its independence, and oppressed our mothers and sisters. We have not forgotten that.”

Addressing concerns about the election, he added, “Some question whether it will happen, claiming obstacles will be put in place, but they don’t even have three votes. Yet they speak loudly. If the people want us, we will be in power; if not, we will remain in the opposition. Why the preemptive noise?”

Fakhrul criticized attempts to seek votes in the name of religion, calling it hypocrisy. “If you are into politics, do it on the right path. Do not mislead or confuse people by using religion. Claiming that voting for a certain candidate guarantees paradise is absurd. Faith, prayer, and surrender to God are separate matters.”

He recounted the role of Jamaat in 1947 and 1971, highlighting their opposition to Bangladesh’s independence, and accused them of misleading people under the guise of religion. Fakhrul emphasized that every Bangladeshi contributed to the liberation struggle, while extremist groups have historically spread confusion.

He praised the secular and democratic vision of Ziaur Rahman, noting that the country’s first constitution reflected trust in God and the principles of Islam. Fakhrul also criticized the interim government over alleged manipulations in the referendum process, saying, “Questions about reform are meant to create confusion. Even where there was consensus, they tampered with the process, yet we accepted it for the greater good of the nation.”

Highlighting Ziaur Rahman’s leadership, Fakhrul said, “He was a remarkable leader who gifted the nation an independent territory.” He also paid tribute to Khaleda Zia, recalling how she fought for democracy and inspired the nation, with her successor Tarique Rahman continuing the legacy.

Other central BNP leaders, including Standing Committee members Mirza Abbas, Dr. Abdul Moin Khan, and Nazrul Islam Khan, also spoke at the event.

Original reporting: https://www.tbsnews.net/bangla/bangladesh/news-details-441681
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