AL leaders overlook Bhashani's contributions: Fakhrul

BNP General Secretary Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has alleged that the ruling party leaders always turn a blind eye to Mawlana Bhashani despite his significant contribution to the independence of Bangladesh as well as the reconstruction of Awami League. 

"Awami League leaders do not even mention the name of Mawlana Bhashani who reconstructed the then Awami League. They think that a single speech has brought independence," he said at a discussion programme on Tuesday. 

"A single speech did not bring freedom to our people, though the ruling party wants to establish it," he said. 

Mirza Fakhrul was addressing the programme organised to mark the speech of Mawlana Bhashani delivered on 9 March, 1971. 

He also ruled out the prime minister's remark that Ziaur Rahman had fired on the pro-independence Bangalees on 25 and 26 March of 1971. 

"People of this country started war through the declaration made by Ziaur Rahman. It is a ridiculous statement that Ziaur Rahman killed Bangalees on 25 and 26 March."

About revoking the gallantry title of Ziaur Rahman, Mirza Fakhrul said it really does not matter whether Ziaur Rahman has a title or not. He will forever remain in the heart of the people for his contribution in the Liberation War. 

Describing Mawlana Bhashani as a magical leader, the BNP leader said he worked for the betterment of mass-people until his last breath. 

"But we forget those who fought and sacrificed for the freedom of the people of this country. We do not remember them."  

Dr Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain, a member of BNP's standing committee, said Ziaur Rahman declared independence on his own and later on behalf of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

"After so many years, it is very unfortunate to hear the history that Ziaur Rahman had killed Bangalees. No matter how much you try to distort the history, the truth will prevail, no injustice can and will be endured," he added. 

The discussion was moderated by Abdus Salam, a member of the BNP chairperson's advisory council. 

BNP standing committee member Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku, Jatiya Party chairman Mostafa Jamal Haider and educationist Dr Mahbub Ullah also spoke on the occasion.