Whole country is looking forward to the next election: Fakhrul

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir remarked on Friday that the entire nation is looking forward to the Jatiya Sangsad (National Parliament) election, which is set to take place in the first half of February 2026.

He elaborated: "We are now going through a time where the entire nation is waiting for the national election in February next year, through which we will be able to return to a democratic system — and everyone wants this."

As the keynote guest at the National Press Club, Fakhrul delivered these remarks during the maiden session of the Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ) Biennial Council-2025.

He emphasised the need for ensuring freedom of expression in a democratic society, saying, "While returning to such a system, we must remember that we must allow people to express themselves freely. Freedom of expression should be valued. The fundamental concept of democracy is that I may disagree with you, but I will always protect your right to voice your opinion."

"Unfortunately, in our country, those who hold opposing viewpoints are labelled enemies. Various forms of misleading propaganda are spread against them. "All of us should avoid such practices," he continued.

Fakhrul appealed for prayers for the recovery of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, saying, "Begum Khaleda Zia, the mother of democracy and leader of the nation in Bangladesh, has been in Evercare Hospital in a critical condition for the last two days. I request that you all pray for her healing."

He stated, "Journalists should prioritise their own demands and the work of the journalists' union." Acting as a puppet for any political party will not solve problems. Sheikh Hasina has purposefully and systematically reduced media freedom over the previous 15 years. I recommend that you try to get out of that scenario."

Mia Golam Parwar, Secretary General of the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and a former member of parliament, attended the ceremony as the special guest.
The programme was headed by BFUJ acting President Obaidur Rahman Shahin and moderated by General Secretary Kader Gani Chowdhury.