Message from BNP Acting Chairman Mr. Tarique Rahman on the Occasion of International Day of Democracy

Message:

"Since 2007, September 15 has been observed annually by the United Nations member states as the ‘International Day of Democracy’ to foster an understanding of democracy and its intrinsic power. 

I pay deep respect to those who have sacrificed their lives to establish democracy. I pray for the salvation of the departed souls of the martyrs and express my sympathy to the injured.

The timeless philosophy of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, based on Bangladeshi nationalism, was rooted in multi-party democracy—founded on equality, human dignity, individual and freedom of speech, and social justice. This vision and philosophy were carried forward by Begum Khaleda Zia through her relentless and uncompromising struggle. That democratic Bangladesh, founded on the aspirations of the people, has repeatedly been attacked by cruel authoritarian rulers attempting to destroy multi-faceted democracy. After one and a half decades of continuous struggle by Begum Khaleda Zia, the mass uprising of students and citizens in July this year culminated in the fall of one of the most heinous authoritarian regimes in history on August 5.

The theme for this year's International Day of Democracy is: ‘Navigating AI for Governance and Citizen Engagement,’ which is very timely. To ensure the rule of law, we must harness the power of technological advancement.

Over the past 16-17 years, millions of voters were denied the opportunity to exercise their voting rights. National and local government elections were held with fake voters. Millions of people could not participate in meaningful elections. Several generations have grown up in a frightening and authoritarian environment without practicing or exercising democratic rights.

Under misrule, freedom and creativity have been severely constrained, and people have had to live in constant obstacles to their human and mental development. The bright and promising future of the youth has been destroyed. We still have a long way to go to build a strong and vibrant democracy because most countries in the world still suffer from weaknesses in democracy.

Personally, I, along with my party, firmly believe there is no alternative to promoting and upholding the principles of democracy. Democracy is a universal value that ensures freedom of expression and thought without obstruction. We are determined to build such a safe, progressive, and democratic Bangladesh, which will play a role in global democratic development beyond national boundaries.

Therefore, we are committed to restoring democracy in Bangladesh through unity. The foundation of repairing our state will be free, fair, and participatory elections, ensuring the independence of the judiciary and media, and the institutional application of all democratic principles.

Insha'Allah, we will build a Bangladesh where the prosperity and self-reliance of future generations are guaranteed, where there is an inclusive and liberal political environment, and where social stability and justice prevail."