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DHAKA, Nov 28, 2025 (BSS) – BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir today said the entire nation is eagerly awaiting the Jatiya Sangsad (National Parliament) election, which is scheduled to be held in the first half of February next year.

He said, “We are now going through a time where the entire nation is waiting for the national election in February next year, through which we will be able to return to a democratic system — and everyone wants this.”

Fakhrul made these remarks while addressing the inaugural session of the Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ) Biennial Council-2025 as the chief guest at the National Press Club.

Emphasising the need to ensure freedom of expression in a democratic society, he said, “While returning to such a system, we must remember that we need to grant others the freedom of expression. Freedom of expression must be valued. The core principle of democracy is that I may not agree with you, but I will certainly protect your freedom to express your opinion.”

“Unfortunately, in our country, those who hold different opinions are considered enemies. Various kinds of false propaganda are spread against them. All of us should refrain from such practices,” he added.

Appealing for prayers for the recovery of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, Fakhrul said, “Begum Khaleda Zia, the Mother of Democracy and Leader of the Nation in Bangladesh, has been in Evercare Hospital in a very ill state for the last two days. I request all of you to pray for her recovery.”

He said, “Journalists should prioritise their own demands and the work of the journalists’ union. Acting as a stooge of any political party does not solve problems. Over the last 15 years, Sheikh Hasina has systematically and deliberately shrunk the space for media freedom. I request you to try to come out of that situation.”

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General and former member of parliament Mia Golam Parwar attended the event as the special guest.

BFUJ acting President Obaidur Rahman Shahin chaired the programme, while General Secretary Kader Gani Chowdhury moderated it.