BNP Acting Secretary General Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi gave an interview to BSS at the party's central office in Nayapaltan. Photo: BSS

By Esme Azom 

DHAKA, Aug 31, 2026 (BSS)- BNP Acting Secretary General Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has said BNP will survive as the largest political party of the country for its public oriented stratum and deep root in people.

“BNP has been fighting with a firm stance on issues of democracy, independence and sovereignty since its inception. At various times, plots were hatched to destroy it. But due to its connection with the people, the party has survived and has been established as the country's largest political party," he said.
Rizvi made the remarks in an interview with BSS today at the party's central office in Nayapaltan of in the city marking the party’s 48th founding anniversary tomorrow.

He said, those who tried to destroy BNP were all associated with undemocratic and authoritarian force. Although various methods were adopted to wipe out BNP, they were not successful."

BNP has survived because it has nurtured its declared policies and internal political philosophy, he said adding, “BNP's stance on national independence and sovereignty is extremely firm.

“There is no compromise or concession on this issue. If anyone makes derogatory remarks or tries to endanger or weaken Bangladesh's democracy, independence and sovereignty, BNP will stand firm against them.”

Rizvi said, “BNP believes in democracy. Whenever democracy in the country has been threatened or attempts were made to weaken it, BNP devoted all its strength for its sustenance.”

The veteran BNP leader further said BNP has enjoyed mass popularity since its inception. The personal achievements and role of the party's founder Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman played a significant role to make party popular among people.

“Ziaur Rahman declared independence in 1971, emerged as a hero in the Sepoy-People's movement in 1975 and finally became nationalistic leader by introducing multi-party democratic system in the country,” he said.

Ziaur Rahman also paved the way of press freedom reopening publication of the newspapers which were declared closed. Opportunities were created for writing and expressing opinions freely. Because of the steps BNP gradually gained popularity, the BNP leader said.

Rizvi said after assassination of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, many thought that BNP would perish. But his ideology made him immortal and transformed into strength.

As Ershad usurped to power and suspended all democratic rights under the umbrella of martial law BNP stood firm against it under the leadership of Deshnetri Begum Khaleda Zia.

Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman's early demise brought his wife Begum Khaleda Zia at the helm of the party, which she led steadfastly.

“Like a fearless commander on the battlefield, Begum Khaleda Zia dealt with all repression and misrule of Ershad for nine years. She was repeatedly arrested and subjected to various forms of torture. But she did not compromise on as far as democracy is concerned. Under her leadership, the victory of democracy came in 1990,” he said. 

Rizvi said Ziaur Rahman's contributions and Begum Khaleda Zia's uncompromising leadership are part of BNP's glorious history. It was because of their leadership BNP has gained popularity among common masses. 

Highlighting the political situation after 2018, Rizvi said, under the fascist regime, Begum Khaleda Zia fell sick and she was land in jail. At that time Tarique Rahman hold the leadership of the party and reorganized the entire party from London.

“Thanks to digital technology, Tarique Rahman virtually reached the doorsteps of the people, especially grassroots communities. People heard his voice. He made the utmost efforts to maintain contact with those injured in the movement, families of the deceased, and those who became disabled while fighting against the autocracy. He inspired and encouraged leaders and activists and kept them organized,” added Rizvi. 

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