Land Minister Mizanur Rahman Minu made the remarks at a discussion at a community center in the city, organised by the district unit of BNP marking the Independence and National Day 2026. Photo: BSS

RAJSHAHI, Mar 27, 2026 (BSS) - Land Minister Mizanur Rahman Minu today said his party believes in mutual friendship, not in dominance.

He said, "Our declaration is Bangladesh first. We believe not in dominance, but in mutual friendship. The common people of the country are our main strength."

Mizanur Rahman Minu made the remarks this afternoon while speaking as the chief guest at a discussion at a community center in the city, organised by the district unit of BNP marking the Independence and National Day 2026.

The minister said that preserving independence is much more difficult than achieving it. BNP always prioritises national interests.

He said that the so-called 'Helmet Force', which carried out repression against BNP leaders and activists during Sheikh Hasina's regime, has now re-emerged as a 'Secret Force.' He remarked that their aim is to create unrest in the country and political instability.

The minister also said that there is a significant amount of khas (state-owned) land under the ministry. Party offices could have been established on these lands, but the BNP does not believe in the politics of land grabbing.

Instead, he said, there is a plan to legally purchase land in the name of the party's Secretary General and construct a permanent office.

Abu Saeed Chand, Member of Parliament (MP) and district BNP convener, presided over the meeting, while Shafiqul Haque Milan, MP, attended the discussion as the special guest.

Other senior district BNP leaders also spoke at the discussion.