National Parliament Speaker Major (retd) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed Bir Bikram has said the people of Bangladesh remained hostage to oppressive and corrupt forces for the past 17 years, but they have yet to be punished. He expressed hope that the government would be able to bring them to justice in the days ahead.

“Never support such a political party. It is the responsibility of every citizen to protect Bangladesh’s independence and sovereignty. Never allow agents of foreign states to set foot on the soil of Bangladesh,” he said.

The speaker made the remarks while addressing a rally organised by the local BNP at the Tazumuddin Upazila Parishad auditorium in Bhola on Sunday (September 13) as the chief guest.

Recalling the late President Ziaur Rahman, Hafiz Uddin Ahmed said honesty carries immense value. Ziaur Rahman continues to be respected by the people even after his death. BNP has returned to power several times, he said, adding that people repeatedly voted for the party because of Ziaur Rahman’s good deeds.

“He was in power in Bangladesh for four to five years. But after his death, it was found that he owned no land and had no money in any bank. His four brothers were alive, yet hardly anyone even knew their names,” he said.

The speaker said Ziaur Rahman governed the country with honesty and patriotism, setting an example of leadership. He said such rulers are rarely seen in the Muslim world today. Describing Ziaur Rahman as a true ruler after the era of the Khulafa-e-Rashidun, he said Ziaur Rahman was widely popular and devoted his life to public welfare.

“BNP is his party. I hope the party will be able to uphold his reputation,” he said.

Speaking about his neutrality as speaker, Hafiz Uddin Ahmed said, “For the sake of neutrality, I resigned from the party’s Standing Committee. I do not participate in any party activities. So far, those who are in the opposition in parliament are largely satisfied. They have no doubts about my neutrality.”

The rally was presided over by Tazumuddin Upazila BNP President Golam Mostafa Mintu. Upazila BNP General Secretary Omar Asad Rintus and other local leaders also spoke at the event. Leaders and activists of BNP and its affiliated organisations were present.

It may be noted that Major (retd) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed Bir Bikram was elected a member of parliament seven times and served as a minister three times from Bhola-3 (Lalmohan-Tazumuddin) constituency. He was elected Speaker of the National Parliament following the 13th parliamentary election.