Power Must Be Returned to Those Who Rightfully Hold Ownership and Strength: Mirza Fakhrul

Mirza Fakhrul Stresses Sovereignty of the People at Press Club Event

At a discussion held on Thursday, 31 July, to mark the first anniversary of the July-August Uprising, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir declared that power must be returned to those who possess real ownership and strength, referring directly to the people of Bangladesh.

Speaking at the National Press Club, he asserted that the right to govern lies not with self-imposed rulers but with those who hold the sovereignty of the state — the citizenry.

Demand for Election and Misinterpretation of Intent

Recalling a post-uprising demand, Fakhrul said:

“On 6 or 7 August, just after the 5 August uprising, we held a rally in Paltan and demanded elections within three months. At the time, some questioned why BNP was in such haste to return to power. Now those very critics admit — it’s not about returning to power; it’s about returning power to its rightful owners.”

Crisis of Representation in Governance

Fakhrul warned of a representational void in the current government, saying:

“When no representative of the people exists in the government, crises are bound to arise. If you need to speak or raise a concern, to whom do you turn? Earlier, we could at least approach MPs or mayors. Now, that avenue no longer exists.”

He drew parallels with historic movements:

“We succeeded in 1952’s language movement, in 1969, in 1971, and again in 2024. I believe we will once again restore the will of the people.”

Call for Constitutional Reform and True Democracy

Fakhrul declared that Bangladesh is facing a unique moment for rebuilding, saying:

“We believe in forming a government through electoral support. If the people want us, we’ll serve; if not, we won’t. We stand for freedom of speech, the right to fair justice, and the dignity every human deserves. But none of these are being realised today.”

He criticised the state’s structure, arguing it must evolve with technology:

“Without reforming the political framework alongside technological change, the state cannot survive. Though we gained freedom from colonial rule in 1947, we soon fell under Pakistani subjugation, and now, we are under local despots. The culture of servitude continues. We must rise above this narrowness and aim for something greater.”

Reform Agenda and Political Consensus

Speaking about BNP’s ongoing reform efforts, Fakhrul stated:

“We have reached consensus on 12 fundamental issues among various political parties. Work is ongoing to forge agreement on the remaining points. Issues lacking consensus should be set aside; we must prioritise and implement core reforms first.”

Limits in Democratic Discourse

Fakhrul also advocated for boundaries in democratic debate, saying:

“Democracy may involve mud-slinging, but it must have limits. Otherwise, it will breed bitterness and resentment that will hamper progress.”

Event Overview and Attendees

The discussion was chaired by Hasan Hafiz, President of the National Press Club, and conducted by Ayub Bhuiyan, the club’s General Secretary.

Other Key Speakers Included:

During the event, four journalists who had faced persecution were honoured in recognition of their resilience and commitment to press freedom.