Remember 1971 when voting, Fakhrul tells Thakurgaon rally

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, contesting from the Thakurgaon‑1 constituency in the upcoming national parliamentary election, has urged voters to keep the spirit of 1971 at the forefront, saying it is the foundation of Bangladesh’s existence.

Addressing an election rally at the BD High School ground in Begunbari union of Thakurgaon Sadar upazila this afternoon, Fakhrul said Bangladesh was liberated by breaking away from Pakistan after years of severe oppression.

“That is why we separated and achieved independence,” he said.

Referring to the Liberation War, he said those who aided the Pakistan army and were responsible for killing thousands are now once again seeking votes to run the country.

“Should we hand over our votes to a party that does not believe in this country or in independence? This is something we must understand,” he said.

Fakhrul contrasted past electoral contests between the boat and the sheaf of paddy, saying the boat is no longer present.

“The one who steered the boat -- our former prime minister Sheikh Hasina -- has left you behind and gone to India. She has left us in trouble, hasn’t she?” he remarked.

Reflecting on his long political career and seeking votes in what he suggested could be his last election, Fakhrul said he has contested many polls, served as an MP, and gained experience in running the government.