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BNP Acting Chairman Mr. Tarique Rahman, gave the following message on the occasion of November 7, National Revolution and Solidarity Day.
"November 7 is an unforgettable historic day in the national life of our country. On this day in 1975, motivated by patriotism, the military and the people took to the streets with an unprecedented commitment to safeguard national independence and restore lost democracy. Therefore, the historic revolution of November 7 holds great significance. After the liberation of the country, state malpractices, political chaos, and the ruling powers of the time, driven by their self-interest, endangered the national independence and weakened the sovereignty of the country, pushing it into the claws of imperialist forces. To make their power permanent, they began anti-democratic actions. As a result, they stifled people's freedom of speech and expression, forming a one-party system (Baksal) that killed democracy. This led to the establishment of a brutal one-party dictatorship, and the country fell into a period of unrest and despair. The Baksal government, through its undemocratic and fascist methods, confiscated people's rightful freedoms. 

At this critical juncture in the history of the country, on November 3, 1975, conspirators imprisoned the great architect of our independence, Ziaur Rahman, along with his family in the cantonment. In this lawless environment, on November 7, a historic unity emerged between the people and the soldiers to safeguard the nation's independence. Ziaur Rahman was freed, and this change of events led to the country's independence and sovereignty becoming stronger and untainted under the leadership of President Zia. Democracy was freed from its shackles and began progressing. From this day onward, the journey of multi-party democracy began. People regained their sense of relief.

In 1981, the local agents of foreign imperialists, having failed to achieve their goals, brutally assassinated President Zia in the Chittagong Circuit House. Though Zia sacrificed his life, his ideals continue to inspire people to unite and stay resolute in defending the country's independence and democracy.

Once again, the fascist forces of the Awami League held on to power for nearly 16 years through force. Their submissive policies weakened the country's sovereignty day by day. By signing secret deals, they exerted control over our politics, economy, and culture, continuing their reckless agenda to establish dominance. They ruthlessly suppressed the fighters for democracy, engaging in extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and a terrifying reign of terror against the opposition. In this ongoing cycle of oppression, the 'symbol of democracy,' our beloved leader Begum Khaleda Zia, was unjustly imprisoned for many years. 

On August 5, through the heroic sacrifice of the student community and the people, the fascists were forced to flee the country. The path to the liberation of democracy has been paved. Now, for the ultimate practice of democracy, it is imperative that we ensure free and fair elections and guarantee the basic human rights of the people. Due to the submissive policies of the Awami fascists, the country's age-old culture, language, and heritage faced unbridled aggression. Therefore, I believe that in the spirit of November 7, all nationalist forces must unite to safeguard democracy and protect national independence and sovereignty in this crucial moment.

On the occasion of National Revolution and Solidarity Day, I extend my heartfelt greetings and congratulations to the people of the country.

Allah Hafez, Bangladesh Zindabad!"

(Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi)  
Senior Joint Secretary 
Bangladesh Nationalist Party - BNP