Dhaka, Aug 18 (V7N) - Bangladesh must never become a sanctuary for extremism or fundamentalism, said BNP’s acting chairman, Tarique Rahman. He emphasized the importance of preventing the resurgence of autocracy, which the people of Bangladesh had recently ousted, stating that they remain steadfast in their commitment to safeguard the country from such forces.

Tarique Rahman made the remarks during a discussion titled "The Role of Poets and Writers in the Revival of Democracy" at the National Press Club on Sunday. The event, organized by the BNP Media Cell, was held in collaboration with the Poetry Council and brought together poets and writers to discuss their role in promoting democratic ideals. The Poetry Council also presented demands for the protection of free speech, and the writers discussed the need for unrestricted freedom of expression.

During his speech, Tarique Rahman called on everyone to unite for free, fair, and impartial elections, stressing that the ownership of the country belongs solely to its people. He stated, “If we want to establish the truth that the people are the rightful owners of this land, we must unite in support of free, fair, and impartial elections, and defend the fundamental right to vote.”

Tarique also highlighted the need to create an accountable system in the country, which can only be achieved through the protection of voting rights. He reminded that the time has come to pay the debt of blood shed by martyrs in the struggle for the nation’s sovereignty.

Addressing the gathering of poets and writers, Tarique Rahman noted, "We can create accountability in every aspect of life. The poets and writers here have advocated for the right to free expression, the freedom to highlight differing opinions, and the right to criticize. These rights can only be upheld through the protection of people’s voting rights.”

Reflecting on the current political climate, he said, “On this Sravana day, the unity in the belief and commitment expressed here reflects our common ideological stance. We are united in our firm position on the independence and sovereignty of Bangladesh, and there is no difference in our dedication to democracy.”

He added that while everyone may not share the same ideological or political views, the common thread that unites them is their unwavering belief in the nation’s sovereignty and democracy. He reaffirmed their determination to thwart any attempts to revive the autocratic regime that was previously ousted by the people.

The event was chaired by poet Mohan Raihan, president of the Poetry Council, and moderated by Abdus Sattar Patowary, a member of the BNP Executive Committee. Speakers at the event included BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed, Vice Chairman Nurul Islam Moni, Media Cell convener Moudud Hossain, acting chairman's advisor Mahadi Amin, editor and writer Abu Saeed Khan, poet Matin Bairagi, Vice President of the Poetry Council Anamika Haque Lili, and General Secretary of the Poetry Council Rezaul Uddin Stalin.

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