Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Jan 12, 2026 (BSS)- BNP Standing Committee Member Mirza Abbas today said due to the contributions of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, the people of Bangladesh today have the opportunity to speak freely and exercise their right to vote.

He said, "Behind the fact that we are expressing our opinions freely today, that the people of Bangladesh have so much freedom to do as they wish for Khaleda Zia's silent sacrifices and contributions,”. 

Mirza Abbas made these remarks as the chief guest at a prayer meeting organized by the Officers and Employees Unity Council of BIRDEM (Bangladesh Institute of Research & Rehabilitation in Diabetes, Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders) Hospital in Shahbagh of the city . They offered prayed seeking forgiveness for the departed soul of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia.

Pointing out that a faction is conspiring to sabotage the upcoming national election, the veteran BNP leader said, "A few individuals in this country, along with discredited political parties who have never liked this country's independence and sovereignty, are trying to plunge the nation back into an unknown darkness. 

They are trying to prevent this election from taking place because they know the people wouldn’t  accept them."

Referring to various misleading information about him on social media, Mirza Abbas said, "I urge those who work on social media or follow it to see how things are being said about him.” We must act against this and give  the correct response,” he said adding  a party is spending crores of taka on social media, both at home and abroad."

During his speech, Mirza Abbas sought cooperation from everyone for the upcoming national parliamentary elections. At this time,  he also praised the quality of medical services at BIRDEM Hospital.

Officials and employees of BIRDEM Hospital, political leaders and activists, and locals were present at the event. Mirza Abbas thanked the BIRDEM Hospital authorities for organizing the prayer meeting.