News Flash
DHAKA, Aug 13, 2025 (BSS) - BNP Standing Committee Member Professor Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain today asserted that the people of country will no longer be suppressed by threats, stressing that such attempts have failed in the past and will continue to do so.
"The people of this country cannot be suppressed by threats. They never have been, and they never will be," Dr. Zahid remarked, responding to questions from journalists after paying respects and offering flowers at the tomb of BNP founder and former President Ziaur Rahman in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar in the city.
Dr. Zahid, who was accompanied by newly elected leaders of the Doctors' Association of Bangladesh (DAB), a BNP-affiliated organization, also participated in a prayer session at the tomb, offering prayers for the Zia family and the prosperity of the nation.
Dr. Zahid strongly criticized those who, he said, were attempting to undermine the democratic process by blocking elections.
"We hear the footsteps of a dictator in the words of those who say they won't allow elections in the country," he stated, referencing recent statements from government officials opposing certain electoral processes.
He further expressed concern over what he described as "conspiracies" surrounding the upcoming election. "The Chief Adviser has directed the Chief Election Commissioner and the Election Commission to ensure that the election takes place by February," Dr. Zahid observed.
"Yet, there are forces in power who seem determined to disrupt this process," he said.
About the controversy centering the Proportional Representation (PR) electoral system, Dr. Zahid said, "The people of Bangladesh do not understand the PR system. It has never been used in major democracies like the United States, the United Kingdom, or India," he said.
"The people want to elect their representatives directly. Those who seek power through backdoor ways are the ones advocating for the PR system. The public is not with those who threaten to stop elections."
Dr. Zahid also condemned the growing influence of mob culture in the country, questioning its long-term impact on national development. "Where are you taking the country through mob culture? What is the state of our education system?" he asked, urging for a stronger focus on societal and institutional reforms.
"No one has ever been able to suppress the people of this country with threats. Even after the disappearances, murders and tortures in the past, the people have stood strong. Those responsible for such acts have met tragic ends. Now is the time to create an environment for free and fair elections," he added.
The ceremony was attended by several key leaders, including BNP Chairperson's Advisor Bijon Kanti Sarkar, BNP Health Affairs Secretary Dr. Md. Rafiqul Islam and members of the Aziz-Shakur panel, including Professors A.K.M. Azizul Haque, Abdus Shakur Khan, Dr. M.A. Selim, Dr. Sirajul Islam and others.
The DAB council was held in a festive atmosphere on August 9, with the Harun-Shakil panel securing a resounding victory.
