BNP's Senior Joint Secretary General Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi addressed in a iftar distribution programme at Nayapalton in the capital today. Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Mar 23, 2025 (BSS) – BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi today urged everyone to maintain a tolerant approach in speeches and conversations. 

“When delivering speeches, we must be extra cautious. We need to ensure that the institutions, which have fought for democracy, do not face any harm due to our words and actions,” he said. 

Rizvi was addressing as the chief guest at an Iftar distribution event, arranged for the marginalized communities, on the premises of BNP’s central office in Nayapaltan, Dhaka. 

 In line with the directive of BNP's acting chairman Tarique Rahman, outgoing central executive committee members of the Association of Engineers, Bangladesh (AEB) organized the event. 

Rizvi also said, “We must remember that in 1971, our military was with the people of this country. A military officer (Major) even made the declaration of independence during that time. The Bangladesh Army has always worked for the interest of the people.” 

“We also saw during the movement in 1990 that when the movement reached its peak, the military took a stand in favor of the people,” he said, adding, “In 2024 as well, we saw that the army stood with the people." 

“As Army stood in favor of the people, our movement became more intense, forcing the fascist Sheikh Hasina to flee the country,” he said, adding, “The country is now free from fascism. So, we all have to be more tolerant.” 

Rizvi also emphasized the importance of strengthening democracy, saying, “To strengthen and fortify democracy, we need free, fair, and impartial elections, the establishment of a justice-based society, the rule of law, and the assurance of justice for every citizen. This is the kind of democratic society we must fight for.” 

“Our struggle is for the establishment of justice and complete democracy. Hence, our conversations and speeches must reflect tolerance, ensuring no disorder arises in the state,” he added. 

Former leaders of AEB were also present at the event.