People will reject those who obstruct democratic journey: Salahuddin

BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed said on Monday that the people will reject anyone who impedes the country's democratic progress.

He stated, "It took a long 16-year struggle and tremendous sacrifice to gain the right to vote. As a result, people will reject those who obstruct the democratic process."

Salahuddin made the remarks while launching the second day of the BNP's seven-day 'Plan for Nation Building' programme at the Krishibid Institution, Bangladesh (KIB) Convention Hall in the capital.

Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, the BNP Senior Joint Secretary General, presided over the event. Joint Secretary General Habib-un-Nabi Khan Sohel moderated the event, which also featured presentations from other senior leaders.

Leaders and activists from various JCD units attended the event.

Salahuddin Ahmed stated, "A political party has resorted to deceiving the nation under the guise of selling religion in tablet form." The party lacks principles, ideology, and a plan, and it seeks to mislead people by exploiting religion. However, their mask has been compromised."

He went on to say, "Our leader Tarique Rahman is making such profound sacrifices to establish democracy that nothing else matters except Bangladesh's interests. For this reason, Tarique Rahman says, "Bangladesh first." As a result, our primary concern must be whether what we write and say will harm the country's interests."

The senior BNP leader urged JCD leaders and activists to combat misinformation on social media, stating, "Currently, abuse and character assassination are most prevalent on social media." We may not spend much time thinking about these issues, but given your age, you must lead the most effective counter-effort there."

Salahuddin Ahmed also emphasised the reforms and development initiatives implemented during the tenures of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia.

He stated, "We must practise knowledge-based, merit-based, and technology-driven politics in ways that no other organisation can match." Chanting slogans is not enough. Even when we disagree, we must engage in these knowledge-based struggles and battles."

Salahuddin explained the benefits of the BNP's future plans, including the Family Card, Farmer Card, and Health Card, emphasising the importance of clearly communicating these benefits to the public.

"Our work plan, including the 31-point demand, must be made clear to the public. "Farmers must understand the Agriculture Card, women must be aware of the Family Card benefits, and everyone should understand how the Health Card works," he stated.

The programme will run until December 13, except on Fridays. The programme will include participation from BNP-affiliated groups such as Juba Dal, Swechchhasebak Dal, and Ulama Dal.