Tarique’s return a democratic milestone, not just party victory: Hasnat
Tarique Rahman's return to Bangladesh after nearly 17 years in exile should be viewed as a milestone in the country's democratic struggle rather than a personal or party achievement, said Hasnat Abdullah, chief coordinator (south) of the National Citizen Party.
In a Facebook post this evening, Hasnat said that Tarique's homecoming demonstrates that a citizen's right to return to their own country cannot be permanently denied through state repression. He noted that the political persecution faced by the BNP acting chairman and his family served as a testament to the authoritarian rule of the past decade and a half.
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"No matter how powerful an autocratic system may appear, it can never permanently suppress the political will of the people," he wrote.
Hasnat said that this return was made possible by the sacrifices of martyrs and those injured during last year's mass uprising.
He expressed hope for a post-uprising Bangladesh where dissent is recognised as a right rather than a crime, and where the state protects citizens' political beliefs. Democracy in this new era, he added, must encompass freedom of expression and a fair environment for political competition beyond just elections.
The NCP leader stressed that ensuring the rule of law and re-establishing people's sovereignty is the responsibility of every politician.
Welcoming Tarique Rahman, Hasnat also shared his wishes for BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia's quick recovery. He expressed hope that she would soon return to public life to help lead the unfinished struggle against fascism, while Tarique Rahman's participation would help fulfil the people's aspirations for a democratic nation.
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